Independent Film Theater
I, too, was sorry to see Norris Hardware close down. Yet now we are presented with an opportunity to bring an independent film theater to Pacific Palisades at last!
There certainly would be a large audience for it. Something tells me that among the thousands of people in Pacific Palisades and in my community, Topanga, there are others who have wondered this same thing. I also have a hunch I’m not alone in bemoaning the fact one needs to travel far and wide to find independent films, documentaries, Live From the Met venues, etc. when preferring not to watch a great film from home.
I’ve talked to others about the idea of putting an independent film house where Norris Hardware once was and, with the exception of most of those under 12 years of age, the idea has been met with enthusiasm. I may not be alone, as well, in having become weary of the meager offering of six films that are all shown in lock-step unison in the theater in Calabasas, West Hills, Woodland Hills and, alas, the Pacific Palisades.
Is there anyone out there who is good at doing this kind of thing? e.g. making a possibility an actuality? I’m not so good at that, but not too bad in the inspiration department. What do you say?
Hopeful in Topanga,
Jeanne Dancs Arthur
Three Cheers for Palisades Music School
For many years I have wanted to learn how to play the piano. I took lessons briefly as a boy, but gave it up as my interest switched to sports. I tried again when I was in my 30s, but my progress was slow and unsatisfactory, so I quit for a second time.
But my love for the sound of the piano never abated. After I had retired, with lots of leisure time at my disposal, I decided to try again. I signed up for a free introductory session at the Palisades Music School and learned about its unique approach to teaching piano, called “Simply Music.”
This program teaches you to play kinetically, by memorizing finger patterns on the keys, rather than by reading the notes on a musical staff (you do eventually learn to read music). I went home from my first lesson able to play a simple, but lovely, melody called “Dreams Come True.”
I’ve been in the program now for two-and-a-half years. Along the way I’ve learned to play pieces by Bach, Mozart and Beethoven, as well as jazz, blues and pop songs. Practicing has become the highlight of my day.
Learning to play a musical instrument at any age is a marvelous growth experience, good for both cognitive development and physical coordination. I especially recommend it for seniors as a way to stay young at heart and sound of mind. If you’ve got time on your hands, put them on the keys at Palisades Music School.
Arthur Hoyle
Palisades Highlands
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