Cortot ends his last recording in perfect form. His playing, as ever, nearly epitomizes romantic abandon, and Landon Ronald leads the London Symphony Orchestra in near perfect accompaniment. Even though this 1934 recording is ancient in sound and practice, it seems to perfectly embody many of the traits that define Schumann. Indeed, what pianist other than Cortot could ever conjure the almost dreamy, ecstatic romanticism of that most romantic of romantic composers? But perhaps I should backtrack a bit.

What do you guys think about the fascination audio (and other electronic) equipment manufacturers appear to have with blue LEDs lately?

Some very interesting observations that Mr. Atkinson made in January's column exploring ways to bring a resurgence in demand for high end electronics among our younger generation. Respectfully, however, I disagree on one of his remarks concerning disposable income among today's youth. His belief that aging baby boomers are in a much more enviable position to buy what they want without second thoughts, citing the age group of attendees of a recent Cream concert as an example, conflict with mine.