Alberti Publishing

Lebron James likes classical music!

This video log shows the step-by-step progression of  a four-year old girl learning perfect pitch.

Is perfect pitch a result of nature or nurture? You can help us and understand more about this intriguing skill by taking this short, anonymous SURVEY. 

New research says Beethoven most likely did not die from lead poisoning.

Five years ago, experts tested samples of Beethoven’s hair and found it had unusually high levels of lead.  Speculation, of course, was that Beethoven had died from lead poisoning.  But new research done on Beethoven’s skull has sent scientists back to the drawing board in search of his cause of death [Read More...]

A study conducted by University of Vienna scholars Jakob Pietschnig, Martin Voracek and Anton K. Formann have perhaps once and for all debunked the theory (myth) of the Mozart Effect.  The “Mozart Effect” study, published in 1993 by psychologist Frances H. Rauscher, claims that those who listen to Mozart’s music can gain extra cognitive ability that translates into better scholastic achievement.  See article…

Attention  musicians and private teachers: financial experts call your tax situation “complicated!”  Want to take some of the sting out of April 15th? Check out your options.

1. Prepare the return yourself.

This is only for the stout of heart. And the government doesn’t care how stout your heart is.  If they find a mistake, they’ll get their money—even years after the return was filed.  That can hurt since Uncle Sam charges approximately 10% interest on unpaid tax debt.  Do-it-yourselfers can download paper forms, file electronically, or use Turbo-Tax.

Pros:  cheap
Cons: mistakes; lack of sleep from worry; time-consuming
Price: free (fill out paper or electronic forms yourself); $100 (use Turbo-Tax)

2. Hire a company to do your tax return

H&R Block is the most popular of these companies.  Their freelance seasonal staff completes a company training course, allowing them to officially prepare your tax return.

Pros: time-efficient
Cons: mistakes; employees can’t handle tricky situations, but often think they can; lack of expert advice can cost you money in the long run.
Price: $100 to $400

3. Use a CPA

CPAs have extensive training in tax prep and must complete a rigorous exam.  Most states require aspiring CPA’s to have a Bachelor’s degree with accounting and business education and sometimes even a Master’s degree or equivalent in accounting–just to take the exam.  Many accountants are experts in a particular area.  If you choose to use a CPA, get referrals from colleagues in the same field.

Pros: time-efficient; no mistakes; established relationship means you can ask business questions any time (CPAs are not seasonal); most CPA’s know tricks-of-the-trade that lower your payable tax.
Cons: costs more than Turbo-Tax
Price: $150 to $450

EUROPEAN MUSIC FESTIVAL

The AMEROPA music festival is meeting in Prague this year.  AMEROPA offers solo and chamber performances for piano, woodwind, and string players.  The internationally renowned faculty and beautiful historic setting give students a top-rate musical experience. Students high-school level and above are encouraged to audition.

Solo Repertoire: July 19-24

Chamber Repertoire: July 25-August 8