Pianists in the news (update)

For the 16th year in a row, experimental music composer Frank Stemper, professor of music composition, theory and computer applications in the SIUC School of Music has won a prestigious award for his work from the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, or ASCAP. The $500 award may not be much by rock and roll standards, "but the pat on the back is nice," says Frank.

Also, Cynthia Fligel, who 'tickles the ivories' at Mugsy McGuire's on weekends, and occasionally at Newell House, will be competing as a triathlete in the 140-mile "Ironman" triathlon in Kansas City on Saturday.

Speaking of Newell House, Mel Goot will be featured at tomorrow night and Saturday, accompanied by the Rita Warford.

Joe Liberto, keyboardist for the jazz group Mercy, says has an album in the works at Misunderstudio.

Bob Pina's been playing at Lombardi's in Herrin on weekends.

Majnun's world class keyboardist, Satya, just returned from a (western) world tour with the band this summer.

How does "Pianos Between the Rivers" sound? Stay tuned.