Thanks to Raymond Chan for originating this thread and providing the contents of the letter that Jeanne Lamon wrote concerning Zukerman's comments about period performance. I think it's great that Lamon has challenged Zukerman to a "battle of the bands". I love a good fight but am skeptical that Zukerman is sufficiently brave to accept the challenge. Many years ago he was blubbering about how terrible period performance is - evidently he's still on the same wavelength. But, I figure he's well aware that that he would lose the battle. Mr. Zukerman might be a splendid person in all other respects, but when it comes to period performance, he behaves in a bitter, spiteful, and childish manner. Maybe he had a traumatic experience in the past associated with period instruments. Whatever, he insults all period instrument conductors, musicians, and listeners - that must include me as well. He could be a good sport, pick up a baroque violin, make a recording, and likely realize that it's not so bad. Don Satz [log in to unmask]