That’s 15 yards

MARK SWED’S excellent music reviews are knowledgeable and imaginatively written. In his review of the Tokyo String Quartet and Sabine Meyer [“Quartet Settles Into Meyer’s Shadow,” Jan. 27], however, he strayed too far into fashion commentary. After complimenting Meyer’s superb playing but criticizing her work as a part of an ensemble, he went on to characterize her outfit as “larva-like” and her appearance as “primordial.”

Those insulting adjectives were out of place (particularly since her black dress was, in my opinion, unobtrusive, suitable and elegant). Possibly Swed was aiming to reinforce his criticism of her musicianship. In football that’s called “piling on” and is against the rules.

JOANNE KNOPOFF

Sherman Oaks