Cablegate: Post Evaluation On Classical Pianists Program

This record is a partial extract of the original cable. The full text of the original cable is not available.

UNCLAS COLOMBO 002041

SIPDIS

STATE FOR SA/PD-LSCHWARTZ/LFSCENSNY;
ECA/PE/C/CU-JMERANTE; SA/PPD-SHUDSON-
DEAN/KWAINSCOTT/JDAVIES; SA/INS

E.O. 12958:N/A
TAGS: KPAO OIIP SCUL CE OEXC
SUBJECT: POST EVALUATION ON CLASSICAL PIANISTS PROGRAM

REF: (A) Wainscott-Lohof email, 11/25/03; (B) State 33066

1. Headline: COLOMBO BRINGS AMERICAN CLASSICAL PIANIST TO
SRI LANKA

2. The enduring value of performing arts programs was
illustrated once again when the American Pianists
Association, Embassy Colombo, and ECA brought Michael
Sheppard, a gifted, young American classical pianist to
Sri Lanka. While in the country Sheppard appeared on MTV
(independent telecaster, islandwide penetration) and
performed in concert with the Symphony Orchestra of Sri
Lanka. He also gave two by-invitation-only concerts: in
Kandy his performance was co-hosted with the Mayor and the
Municipal Council; in Colombo his concert at the Residence
was the focus of Ambassador Lunstead's social debut.
Additionally, Sheppard and the APA's artistic director,
Joel Harrison, conducted master classes in Colombo, Galle,
and Kandy.

3. September 22-October 1, 2003, Fourth Quarter

4. Justification and Objective: Here, as in many other
places around the world, classical music enjoys the
patronage of Sri Lanka's most influential citizens. In a
bilateral conversation that is inevitably driven by the
nuts and bolts of policy, Sheppard's appearances brought
boost and dimension to our message. The U.S. is not just
a world power, Sheppard's music illustrated. It's also a
civilization. Clearly, the Department should be
sponsoring more -- not fewer -- programs like this.
LUNSTEAD

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