Ulrike Rainer

Mein lieber Christopher, es ist ein schöner Sommerabend und eigentlich fände das 2. Hauptereignis der Stadt Mainz, die Johannisnacht statt. Nun schließt  Corona solche Großveranstaltungen aus. Die Spargelsaison endet traditionell an Johannis, dem 24. Juni und es war Spargelzeit vor 17 Jahren. Wir hatten einen Gast, einen ehemaligen VDAC Stipendiaten aus der UT in Austin,…

In 2003, Christopher came to Mainz, Germany, on the exchange program of the VDAC as a nominee of Dartmouth College. It is not every day that one has the good fortune of becoming acquainted with someone of such unusual character, with such a zest for life and such incredible musical talent. Christopher made sure to…

I’m a Canadian opera singer, and in spring 2014 I was a guest artist at the Munich Staatsoper for a new production of Zimmerman’s Die Soldaten. It was a huge production, and one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career. It was also the first time I had ever worked with a prompter. In…

Zeke and I were Dartmouth classmates and have always had a musical bond. We didn’t run in the same friend circles but always supported each other’s endeavors. I was very touched that he not only attended my senior recital but took it upon himself to help my parents set up the small reception. I had…

I have observed this young man’s career and many accomplishments with admiration via FaceBook.  I never met him.  Yet through the pictures, postings, and his music, I felt a great connection.  As a musician, I grieve the loss of his talents in the future.  As a teacher, I grieve for those who taught him and…

September 2004: first time I met you, joyfully welcoming me at Dartmouth. January 2020: last time I hugged you, after celebrating my mother’s Befana in Italy. In between, too much for now, but I’ll share more. I’m shocked and I cry. Romeo is not informed, but he asked me: “Mamma, hai bisogno di un’abbracciatona?”. I’m splitting it…