The Artist as Citizen Joseph W. Polisi Amadeus Press, Pompton Plains, New Jersey, 2005 This series of wide ranging essays, really speeches that the President of Juilliard has given at commencements and on other occasions, show him to be a man of wide vision who takes the role of the artist in society with all the seriousness it deserves. That is not to say that he does not have charm, wit and humor mixed with the depth of his concern. This is a wonderful book to read at leisure, since all its chapters are self-contained. You will find out why there are now so many foreign students at Juilliard, what concerns motivated the changed NEA guidelines, and the character of the different departments at Juilliard. Polisi both broadened the school by adding liberal arts courses, and tightened the reins on a naturally ebullient and independent student body, to prepare its graduates for the rigors of profession, and to inculcate a dedication to serve the wider world through art. In the wider world, the mission of the arts is often misunderstood, its contribution underestimated. For professionals, his words are welcome reminder of our greater purpose, and our funny quirks; for arts lovers and those who understand our mission, there is plenty to think about, and for the general public, this is accessible, and easy read. Here's a daring thought. This is a quick read, good for planes. Why not send a copy to a politician as a gift? RP Back to Top