Jeremey McMillan wrote:
>I really don't want to offend anyone when I ask this question:
>
>Wasn't Chopin gay or bi? I know he had a nine or ten year affair with
>novelist George Sand (Dudevant), but the author of every biography I've
>read about Chopin questioned his sexuality.
Many have questioned Chopin's sexuality. Frankly, who cares?! He left us
with beautiful music. I am unabashedly gay, but take offense to the tacky
marketing ploys of the record labels by slapping together totally unrelated
musical styles and calling them "Out Classics" or some other such crap.
The "Ultimate Opera Queen" collection by RCA is in the worst possible taste
with its drawing of three old fey men on the cover. Gag!
>And Liberace- Who was he? I've heard a lot about him being an entertainer
>and all, but I don't recall ever seeing a picture of him or anything.
Liberace was just what you say. An entertainer. One of the most
flambouyant and fantastic showmen to ever grace the stage. He began his
career in Milwaukee, WI where he was born, and he went on to become one
of the most recognised and famous entertainers in the world. Classically
trained and posessed of some noteworthy piano skills, Liberace opted to
go the show biz route, performing classical standards only in stylized
arrangements. His shows were outrageous in their use of props, costumes
and gimmicks. He was a Las Vegas staple for many years. In later life,
he began to live his own stage show. His homes were gaudy spectacles of
expensive furniture and excess of everything, right down to a gold plated
toity and a piano shaped swimming pool.
Although he never admitted it publicly, and in fact won a highly
publicized libel suit in England in the late 50's over the issue, Liberace
was gay. After he accumulated substantial wealth and fame, he tended to
keep a stable of young men as lovers and "objects' d'art" around him
constantly. He was secretly, but dangerously promiscuous, and had a number
of scandalous 18-20 year old lovers when he was well into his fifties.
Despite his shortcomings, he also had a very positive reputation for
his generosity and he helped to launch the careers of a number of young
artists. He also did hundreds of concerts to raise money for charity. His
estate now funds a museum in Las Vegas, and a scholarship fund for young
and aspiring entertainers.
Classical snobs regard him with disdain, but he brought a great deal of joy
into the world, and it is a better place for his having been here. He died
of complications from AIDS about ten or so years ago.
>In closing, I must say again: This was just a friendly question and I
>don't want to offend anyone!
None taken, Jeremey. Your unbiased approach to learning is very
refreshing!
Kevin Sutton
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