Remembering the Phenomenon Called Woodstock

I agree with promoter Bill Graham’s statements about using collective power toward positive goals and particularly with his comments on the die-hard fans of the ‘60s who can no longer see an artist in an intimate setting (“The Irony of Woodstock” by Robert Hilburn, June 18).

A couple of years ago when the Mayfair Theatre in Santa Monica boasted the comeback of the smaller rock concert setting I was euphoric. I could return to the good old days when I could see the artist’s face without binoculars and the artist could respond to audience comments.

What happened to the Mayfair? It is now a comedy club. Sad.

True, there are a few small clubs left, such as the Wiltern and McCabe’s, but the reality is that most rock stars today won’t even play Los Angeles. They want us to trek out to Orange County to see them amid enormous masses of people. I prefer to buy an album and hear it in peace in my own home.

Yes, Woodstock did change rock forever, and, unfortunately, we pay the price day after day--the loss of the intimacy, purpose and enjoyment of a live concert.

NORA AMRANI

Studio City