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Condoleezza Rice, the US Secretary of State, gave a piano recital for the Queen yesterday during her visit to Buckingham Palace.
Dr Rice performed music by Johannes Brahms accompanied on violin by Louise Shackleton, the wife of David Miliband, the Foreign Secretary. Three members of the London Symphony Orchestra offered backing to the high-profile duo.
Afterwards, the Queen presented Dr Rice with a recording of the performance as a gift.
America’s most senior diplomat is a classically trained pianist who had expressed a wish to play at the palace. She was making her final trip to Britain before President-elect Barack Obama takes office next month.
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How about this - I didn't like her in office, but she's a lovely pianist and I think it's wonderful that she played for the Queen. Tada!
Kelsey, Gig Harbor,
The Brahms piece is a wonderful piece, and I thought it a wonderful touch, and very appropriate for Louise Shackleton and her London Symphony colleagues to join with Dr Rice.
Dr George Abbott White, Brookline, Massachusetts, USA
Dr. Rice is a class act. Intelligent, attractive, professional, and above all loyal. Although President Bush made several mistakes, not once has she been disloyal. She is a wonderful lady and deserves everything good that life has in store for her. Thanks Dr. Rice, for representing the USA so well.
Erroll, Philadelphia, PA, USA
As an American, I am deeply proud of Condoleezza Rice. She is not only our Secretary of State, but a cultural ambassador as well. I hope we will have more of those in our future.
Deanna, New York, United States
To: Margaret, Chicago, US...
You have no idea of what happens in the world. Please go back to the basement and let the grownups do their job. Oh, by the way, have Obama send back his paychecks for most of the last 2.5 years as a senator. He did almost NOTHING except run for office....what a shrill.
Mike D, Eden Prairie, MN, US of A
It's common practice for diplomats and retiring diplomats to exchange gifts isn't it? I think this was a wonderful gift to Her Majesty. Just remember: those that can, do. Those that can't, complain about others who can on the internet.
Scott, Orange, USA
Ms. Rice has graciously and professionally represented the United States through out the world and in many diverse cultures dealing with issues of great importance . Margaret of Chicago by her comments exposes her ignorance of Ms. Rice's accomplishments and her own pettiness.
Kathy, Oklahoma City, USA
Intelligent, educated, talented, classy and attractive... What is not to like about this woman? She has done an excellent job representing our country. I hope she gets all she wants out of life in the coming years. Congratulations Dr. Rice, and thank you for your service.
Hal, Seattle, USA
Margaret, Don't be a hater, it's unbecoming
Al , Tracy , CA, USA
Is this what we are paying her for? Has this woman done anything in her job description?
Margaret, Chicago, US
Rice is PURE CLASS. It is a shame her critics were not.
JC, Springfield, VA, USA