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From UCLA to Books to the Philharmonic–Los Angeles Events

This week burst forth with a number of incredible events– back to back.  Of course the one I hold most dear to my heart was the celebration for the opening of the UCLA Younes & Soraya Nazarian Center for Israel Studies.  Some of you may be familiar with the names; my in-laws have been a great example of philanthropists who put their energy and resources into the projects they care for.  After 5 years of coordination with UCLA and the UC Regents, UCLA now has an official Israel Studies Program–the first such center on the West Coast and one of three in the nation that are named and endowed.  We were so proud to celebrate the opening of the center at Chancellor Gene Block’s residence, with 2 previous chancellors attending.  Three hundred guests came in support!

The following day, on Wednesday, a very elegant book party took place at the famous “Schnabel House” with guest of honor Frank Gehry.  In fact the Schnabel house has been designed by Gehry and is showcased  in Assouline’s ” Living Architecture:Greatest American Houses of the 20th Century”.  It was a real high point to meet and talk to him and to tour this very unique and sculptural house.

I have a link here that shows some pictures of the house:

http://www-scf.usc.edu/~dtsung/ARCH307/SCH1.HTM

Speaking of Frank Gehry designed spaces, the following night, David and I went to the opening gala of the Philharmonic at the Frank Gehry designed Disney Hall.  Most Angelenos know that Dudamel is the rock star of the philharmonic and last night was sublime!  Juan Diego Florez, who is known as the tenor of choice in major international theatres joined the orchestra last night. What an astonishing voice! No wonder he is booked through 2015 at most major Opera houses.  What can I tell you….last night was a real treat!