In my previous newsletters, I introduced to you high-quality and affordable venues where I could film your live concert or setup a recording session and produce a DVD/Blu-ray Disc. Two weeks ago I visited The DiMenna Center for Classical Music and was impressed with this unique venue and would like to tell you more about it.

Located in Midtown Manhattan, The DiMenna Center offers acoustically-optimized rehearsal and recording spaces with a wide array of amenities for musicians ranging from soloists to symphony orchestras and choruses. The DiMenna Center's acoustics were designed by Akustiks.

The DiMenna Center includes medium and large-sized halls that fit different types of ensembles.

The smaller Norman S. Benzaquen Hall is ideal for solo recitals, chamber orchestras, choruses, large chamber ensembles, recording projects and special events. The hall is outfitted for recording and includes an American Steinway D 9-foot concert grand piano, high ceilings, chairs, music stands, bass stools, and conductor podium.

The larger Mary Flagler Cary Hall is suitable for large orchestras and choruses, recording sessions (including film soundtracks), theatrical projects, and special events. The hall is outfitted for recording and includes an American Steinway D 9-foot concert grand piano, retractable film screen, skylight window, high ceilings, chairs, music stands, bass stools, and conductor podium.

I had the opportunity to play on their two Steinway D pianos and was pleased with their sound and condition. Ms. Annette Shantur, who gave me a tour at The DiMenna Center, said that pianists are welcome to bring their own piano of choice.

Yamaha Artist, author, lecturer and recording artist Lisa Yui, described by "Pianiste" magazine as "a musical phenomenon," released her first DVD/Blu-ray Disc box set on April 4, 2014 that featured four Beethoven piano sonatas.

In addition to Ms. Yui's superb performances of these famous sonatas by Ludwig van Beethoven - "Appassionata," "Moonlight", "Waldstein" and the witty Sonata in F major, Op. 10 No. 2 - Ms. Yui precedes each work with original commentary. Each sonata is illuminated by historical and musical information demonstrated by the artist.

These performances were filmed with five cameras that add a unique quality to the interpretation. Pre-selected camera positions and a wide variety of different camerawork techniques including slow zooms were used to make Ms. Yui's magical interpretations a pleasant experience to watch and listen to.

Both DVD and Blu-ray Disc recordings are included in a single box set and can be purchased from Amazon or streamed online from Amazon Instant Video.

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