Back from Los Angeles

This last week in L.A. was filled with meetings and constant activity. The weather seems to always be nice in Hollywood/Los Angeles. Everyone there seems to think it's quite hot, but they just haven't experienced Texas heat.
I gave a couple of private concerts, met with colleagues in the music industry and also enjoyed time with my dear friend Lisa Lu (Lú Yàn, 盧燕). I have known Lisa for nearly 8 years, however this was the first time we actually met. She is a renown stage and film actress in China and has starred in films such as The Last Emperor & The Joy Luck Club. During my stay in L.A. she invited me to accompany her to a ceremony where she was honored with a lifetime achievement award. We also attended a screening of Narnia (neither of us really enjoyed the film).

For those of you who keep up with my blog, you know I have a strong connection with China. The latest news is all about the earthquake and I can not begin to describe the sorrow I feel from this tragedy. The loss of life on such a large scale brings me great sadness. The Chinese people are strong and I believe they can rise above this great challenge.

I was to begin touring next month as a soloist with the Shanghai Opera. Our tour itinerary included Chengdu, one of the hardest hit cities.

I ask that you take a moment of silence after reading these words, in remembrance of those who lost their lives.