Vids shown in class today - the top one is the only one that really applies in term of academic content. The other two spring from our discussion of rap vs hiphop.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Test Graded - and your comments
The test grades are up on Vista. When calculating your percentage, don't use 70 as the points possible - use 66. (yes, it's a curve.)
Below are your comments - interesting stuff!
What has surprised you most about 20th C music?
How good some of the music was, despite the weirdness.
I can not listen to this music at all. It is not easy on the ears at all. I wish I could go back and change it all. It amazed me that they took things from the past periods.
What surprised me most about 20th century music was how early electronics were used in composing and producing new sounds. While most of these sounded like complete crap, they found their way into popular music and other forms of entertainment such as cartoons, as well as forming a path for sound designers in general.
The fact that electronic music had been used in the early 20th century amazed me. I thought all of it came in during the 80's or something, Poeme Electronique sounded like new Radiohead stuff!
How there were these extremes. Either you deviated from the old ideas or you went with the old ideas and composed based on those ideas.
Surprised? Probably the range of sounds, even NOISES, that can be cobbled together and called music. I've found that the answer to the question "Is it music?" is always "It COULD be!"
It has surprized me more by now knowing that the music made from today has already been done. Its amazing how the old music is still sampled and writing the same way.
It is different than I was expecting it to be. Other than that nothing really surprised me.
Was very surprised at how diverse the music was. Some of the pieces were just absolutely horrid, but some were actually enjoyable to listen to.
Nothing really surpirsed me. I figured 20th century music would sound completely different from anything else we've covered since the music of today sounds completely different from anything we've covered. Well, nevermind, one thing that did surprise was people rioted over the new type of music. I guess its shocking to me because "shocking" music is more common today than it ever was.
Before we started studying twentieth century music, I thought it would be more like today's music. After we started studying the twentieth century, I learned that many of the pieces sounded like the other eras we have already studied. It is very hard to identify the pieces because they sound so much like the other ones. I was very suprised by this. I knew that more percussion and electonics would be used, but I thought it would have a completely new sound. I was suprised that the twentieth century wasn't very new and interesting. The Romantic era was more interesting than the twentieth century and I thought it would be the opposite.
It's near inability to be classified by certain characteristics. It has so many styles. One person can't hear something and think "20th Century" like one can in the previous eras.
The vastness of the realms of ideas in which it encompasses. Anything goes. Its like an explosion of creative musical thought. Pretty awesome in my opinion.
I throughly enjoyed the exploration of noise and the abandoment of "civilized" music to prove the point that anything can be music
How early the electronic music was introduced.
It sounds just like the music of the old days just with better and more instruments.
how it came about, the history.
The variety of the music.
How ridiculous it can be. I love the Romantic music, but 20th century is just plain noise. Yes, yes, to shock the audience. To be honest with you, that has been said about every era: "This is different, a reaction to the era before." Everything is to shock or please an audience.
The atonality. Random notes and singing doesn't seem to mix.
Below are your comments - interesting stuff!
What has surprised you most about 20th C music?
How good some of the music was, despite the weirdness.
I can not listen to this music at all. It is not easy on the ears at all. I wish I could go back and change it all. It amazed me that they took things from the past periods.
What surprised me most about 20th century music was how early electronics were used in composing and producing new sounds. While most of these sounded like complete crap, they found their way into popular music and other forms of entertainment such as cartoons, as well as forming a path for sound designers in general.
The fact that electronic music had been used in the early 20th century amazed me. I thought all of it came in during the 80's or something, Poeme Electronique sounded like new Radiohead stuff!
How there were these extremes. Either you deviated from the old ideas or you went with the old ideas and composed based on those ideas.
Surprised? Probably the range of sounds, even NOISES, that can be cobbled together and called music. I've found that the answer to the question "Is it music?" is always "It COULD be!"
It has surprized me more by now knowing that the music made from today has already been done. Its amazing how the old music is still sampled and writing the same way.
It is different than I was expecting it to be. Other than that nothing really surprised me.
Was very surprised at how diverse the music was. Some of the pieces were just absolutely horrid, but some were actually enjoyable to listen to.
Nothing really surpirsed me. I figured 20th century music would sound completely different from anything else we've covered since the music of today sounds completely different from anything we've covered. Well, nevermind, one thing that did surprise was people rioted over the new type of music. I guess its shocking to me because "shocking" music is more common today than it ever was.
Before we started studying twentieth century music, I thought it would be more like today's music. After we started studying the twentieth century, I learned that many of the pieces sounded like the other eras we have already studied. It is very hard to identify the pieces because they sound so much like the other ones. I was very suprised by this. I knew that more percussion and electonics would be used, but I thought it would have a completely new sound. I was suprised that the twentieth century wasn't very new and interesting. The Romantic era was more interesting than the twentieth century and I thought it would be the opposite.
It's near inability to be classified by certain characteristics. It has so many styles. One person can't hear something and think "20th Century" like one can in the previous eras.
The vastness of the realms of ideas in which it encompasses. Anything goes. Its like an explosion of creative musical thought. Pretty awesome in my opinion.
I throughly enjoyed the exploration of noise and the abandoment of "civilized" music to prove the point that anything can be music
How early the electronic music was introduced.
It sounds just like the music of the old days just with better and more instruments.
how it came about, the history.
The variety of the music.
How ridiculous it can be. I love the Romantic music, but 20th century is just plain noise. Yes, yes, to shock the audience. To be honest with you, that has been said about every era: "This is different, a reaction to the era before." Everything is to shock or please an audience.
The atonality. Random notes and singing doesn't seem to mix.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Youtube Choir?
Recording Instructions
Introduction to the virtual choir
Last year, renowned composer Eric Whitacre went viral with his virtual choir. This time around he has increased the stakes and organized a virtual choir with over 2,000 members. In this TED talk, Whitacre talks about the challenges of making music powered by YouTube and reveals his latest effort titled "Sleep."
Composer Organizes 2000 member virtual choir
Tuesday, April 05, 2011
To reiterate.......
Next week, the amazing Vientos del Pueblo (vientosdelpueblo.com) joins the MSC Chamber Singers for a program featuring music of South America, including the Argentinean classic “Misa Criolla.” Vientos del Pueblo will be bringing charangos, zampoñas, quenas, a cajon, rainstick, bomba, a donkey’s jaw and some toenail looking things plus guitars and a violin. We will be joined by Dr. Leroy Bynum, Dean of the College of Arts and Humanities at Albany State University. This is a program you do not want to miss:
Friday, April 15, 7:30 p.m.
First Presbyterian Church
682 Mulberry Street
Downtown Macon
We are expecting a huge crowd, so don’t come late!
Friday, April 15, 7:30 p.m.
First Presbyterian Church
682 Mulberry Street
Downtown Macon
We are expecting a huge crowd, so don’t come late!
Monday, April 04, 2011
Concert Reports note, and a couple of random news tidbits.......
1) Remember that concert reports are due in by the 2nd class after the concert took place. So if the concert was on Friday, then you need to turn in the report by the Wednesday's class.
Everything is due by the last day of class, 11:59 pm (the odd time is in case you'd like to turn it in electronically).
2) I've mentioned that Youtube is full of copyright violations, and there is a $1 Billion lawsuit between Google and Viacom over this issue. It is now in the 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals - and I think it will land in the Supreme Court eventually. HERE is an article with the latest update.
3) So now you can make music with....your SNEAKERS! Adidas has developed a sneaker with a wireless setup that transforms tap dance movements into music. FULL ARTICLE HERE.
Everything is due by the last day of class, 11:59 pm (the odd time is in case you'd like to turn it in electronically).
2) I've mentioned that Youtube is full of copyright violations, and there is a $1 Billion lawsuit between Google and Viacom over this issue. It is now in the 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals - and I think it will land in the Supreme Court eventually. HERE is an article with the latest update.
3) So now you can make music with....your SNEAKERS! Adidas has developed a sneaker with a wireless setup that transforms tap dance movements into music. FULL ARTICLE HERE.
2 upcoming concerts
1) Friday night April 15 @ 7:30 pm @ First Presbyterian Church on mulberry Street (Downtown Macon, across the street from the Grand Opera House).
The Macon State Chamber Singers with Vientos Del Pueblo. Youtube Vid
The Singers will do a set, then the Band will do a set, followed by a performance of a Latin America Mass.
Free!
2) Tuesday April 19 at 1:00 pm in the Rehearsal Hall (downstairs from the Music App classroom).
The Macon State Chamber Singers, plus music students on piano, voice, and guitar, will perform a variety of works.
Free! DO NOT COME IN LATE
The Macon State Chamber Singers with Vientos Del Pueblo. Youtube Vid
The Singers will do a set, then the Band will do a set, followed by a performance of a Latin America Mass.
Free!
2) Tuesday April 19 at 1:00 pm in the Rehearsal Hall (downstairs from the Music App classroom).
The Macon State Chamber Singers, plus music students on piano, voice, and guitar, will perform a variety of works.
Free! DO NOT COME IN LATE
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Quick notes: Curves, Numbers, and Concerts
1) Curves
Vista will tell you that the test was worth 89 points. Instead, I'm going to count it as worth 85 points.
2) Numbers
Remember that there is an Excel spreadsheet that you can download and plug in your grades - and then play what if to see where you stand for your average. The spreadsheet assumes a C for all of the grades (you have to start somewhere!) - but you can change that as needed.
I suggest you take advantage of it - that will avoid unpleasant surprises later!
Cherry Blossom is next week - TONS of free concerts to go to that will count. Again, if you have a question, ASK!
Vista will tell you that the test was worth 89 points. Instead, I'm going to count it as worth 85 points.
2) Numbers
Remember that there is an Excel spreadsheet that you can download and plug in your grades - and then play what if to see where you stand for your average. The spreadsheet assumes a C for all of the grades (you have to start somewhere!) - but you can change that as needed.
I suggest you take advantage of it - that will avoid unpleasant surprises later!
3) Concerts
We are over the halfway point, and I have received a relative few concert reports. DON'T WAIT UNTIL THE LAST WEEK when everyone is brain-damaged from a long semester and you have way too much work to get done in not enough time.Cherry Blossom is next week - TONS of free concerts to go to that will count. Again, if you have a question, ASK!
Friday, March 04, 2011
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Presentation schedule updated
Apparently I hadn't completed typing in the schedule, so the last few weeks were missing!
It's been finished now - if you aren't on it, PLEASE let me know quickly!
http://maconstate.blogspot.com/p/present-sked.html
It's been finished now - if you aren't on it, PLEASE let me know quickly!
http://maconstate.blogspot.com/p/present-sked.html
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Free concert Friday - Mercer Jazz
Exciting, Exhilarating, and Free
Combo - Music of the Modern Masters. (J.Redman,C.Corea,J.Coltrane)
Combo - Music of the Modern Masters. (J.Redman,C.Corea,J.Coltrane)
Big Band Ensemble - Diverse Sounds from (Metheny to Duke)
Friday Feb 25 @ 7:30 PM
Location: Fickling Hall in Townsend School of Music at Mercer University
Friday Feb 25 @ 7:30 PM
Location: Fickling Hall in Townsend School of Music at Mercer University
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Concerts this week @ Mercer
Full calendar is at http://www2.mercer.edu/Music/calendar.htm
Most of these are FREE. Notice that the Ben Altman (Classical Guitar) concert is at Noon.
Most of these are FREE. Notice that the Ben Altman (Classical Guitar) concert is at Noon.
| February 18 | Masterworks at Noon Series Guest Artist Recital Ben Altman, guitar - Program features Joan Tower's Clocks and Bach's Partita No. 2 in D minor 12 p.m. |
| 18 | Mercer Wind Ensemble Mad About Chamber Winds II Douglas Hill, conductor 7:30 pm |
| 25 | Mercer Jazz Ensemble Monty Cole, director 7:30 PM |
| 26 | Fabian Strings Series Robert McDuffie, violinAmy Schwartz Moretti, violin Julie Albers, celloElizabeth Pridgen, piano - Program features solo works plus Dvorák's Piano Quintet $25 general admission/Free with Mercer IDNOTE: While part of the Fabian Series, the subscription charge for this concert is $25. Call (478) 301-5470 to purchase. For tickets, call (478) 301-5470 or click here to order online |
Thursday, February 03, 2011
Instruments? We don't need no stinkin' INSTRUMENTS!
Proof you can make music with just about anything. Something fluffy for a Friday!
Sampled Room from Mateusz Zdziebko on Vimeo.
Sampled Room from Mateusz Zdziebko on Vimeo.
Wednesday, February 02, 2011
Test grades available
You can swing over to WebCT/Vista and check your grades. I've typed in the listening scores - you'll get your sheet back in class.
Let me know if you CAN'T see the test score! Remember that your score is out of 70 points, NOT 100!!!!
Let me know if you CAN'T see the test score! Remember that your score is out of 70 points, NOT 100!!!!
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Music Tech, the upcoming test, concert reports
Test next Monday IN THE LIBRARY COMPUTER LAB. Bring your own earbuds/headphones if you'd like - we do have headphones there if you'd prefer to use those as well.
There are some quickie study sheets on the blog in the sidebar links:
http://maconstate.blogspot.com/2006/09/renaissance-music.html
http://maconstate.blogspot.com/2007/02/study-sheet-medieval-renaissance.html
http://maconstate.blogspot.com/2008/01/elements-test-study-suggestions.html
Here are links to the youtube Music Technology demo videos:
Synth demo: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m3l_KZvpyZg
Sample playback: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D1r_A8ZPy08
Midi & Softsynths: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AK43livUlbs
MIDI recording and quantizing: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kj7DVMBXjQg
MIDI as a musical word processor: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G900R8ejX18
All of the above, if you've got 10 minutes to kill!: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7MImmCoHH8k
Want some suggestiona on writing a concert report?
http://maconstate.blogspot.com/2006/08/sample-listening-chart.html
Check the syllabus as well.
Have a great weekend!
There are some quickie study sheets on the blog in the sidebar links:
http://maconstate.blogspot.com/2006/09/renaissance-music.html
http://maconstate.blogspot.com/2007/02/study-sheet-medieval-renaissance.html
http://maconstate.blogspot.com/2008/01/elements-test-study-suggestions.html
Here are links to the youtube Music Technology demo videos:
Synth demo: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m3l_KZvpyZg
Sample playback: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D1r_A8ZPy08
Midi & Softsynths: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AK43livUlbs
MIDI recording and quantizing: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kj7DVMBXjQg
MIDI as a musical word processor: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G900R8ejX18
All of the above, if you've got 10 minutes to kill!: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7MImmCoHH8k
Want some suggestiona on writing a concert report?
http://maconstate.blogspot.com/2006/08/sample-listening-chart.html
Check the syllabus as well.
Have a great weekend!
Quick notes, test, etc
- Don't forget that there is a deadline to turn in concert reports. Check the syllabus!
- There WILL be listening on the test - I play a 30 or 60 second snippet from the CDs and you identify the piece. I'll pull from the first 16 pieces (Dowland is the last one - see inside front cover).
- I'd also suggest jumping over to Vista and taking the "stupid sample test" if you've never used Vista on a test. Take it multiple times if you're bored!
Monday, January 24, 2011
Kamien problems, Bookstore issues....and another week begins.
Welcome to the first FULL week of classes for Spring 2011!
1) Thanks to Beth who pointed out that she couldn't register Kamien Connect because it was "closed". They forgot to tell me about having to actually "open" the class with specific availability dates. It's open now.
Kamien Connect would be VERY helpful if you are online a lot, plus it has several "tests" you can take to get ready for the exam [next week!]. It is, however, NOT manadatory.
2) The bookstore has the study guide marked as mandatory. IT IS NOT. Someone somewhere missed the checkbox where I put down that it was OPTIONAL.
The study guide is helpful for some people, for others the Kamien site is better, and yet others prefer to take notes. Make a decision based on how YOU work.
-- ======================================= Tom Rule, the MacMusicGuy http://www.tomrule.info/ Internet Radio http://www.last.fm/music/Tom+Rule/ Bands http://www.tom-and-co.com http://www.moselydixonproject.com Royalty-Free Broadcast Tracks http://www.GovAccessMusic.com ========================================
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
NOT for MusApp - for my piano students
Sorry for the intrusion, Music Appreciation people. This was the handiest way to post the book for my piano students!
BOOK ONE
BOOK TWO
BOOK ONE
BOOK TWO
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
tom&co album / Three Kings track played the other day
Someone wanted to know where to get a copy of the Three Kings track (they said it was "ballin' ", which was cool...). Here are the links:
the Whole album (Seasons) - iTunes
That page has links which will open up iTunes
It's also available on CDbaby,
either CDs or downloads
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Kamien Textbook available for the iPad
This is what I was sent. If you decide to go this route, I'd really like to hear from you as the semester progresses on whether you like it or not, advantages/disadvantages, etc!
Kamien available for the iPad:
An interactive, electronic version of Kamien: Music, An Appreciation Brief 7e is available for the iPad through Inkling http://www.inkling.com
You can purchase the full book for $69.99.
To learn more about this version of Kamien, visit http://www.inkling.com.
To explore a free chapter, download the Inkling app to your iPad from the App Store.
After launching Inkling on your iPad, navigate to the Inkling store where you can download a chapter on Classical Music for free.
Know that this version of Kamien: Music, An Appreciation Brief 7e contains all the music supporting the Kamien program.
Here is the URL to the Inkling site Textbook page:
http://www.inkling.com/mh_music_an_appreciation_brief/
An interactive, electronic version of Kamien: Music, An Appreciation Brief 7e is available for the iPad through Inkling http://www.inkling.com
You can purchase the full book for $69.99.
To learn more about this version of Kamien, visit http://www.inkling.com.
To explore a free chapter, download the Inkling app to your iPad from the App Store.
After launching Inkling on your iPad, navigate to the Inkling store where you can download a chapter on Classical Music for free.
Know that this version of Kamien: Music, An Appreciation Brief 7e contains all the music supporting the Kamien program.
Here is the URL to the Inkling site Textbook page:
http://www.inkling.com/mh_music_an_appreciation_brief/
Monday, January 03, 2011
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
From Class Wed 11/10/10
- Listening for the test:
Be able to ID the title and the period the piece is from (Romantic or 20th century)
Might be a good idea to get a handle on the composers (hint hint)
- Free concert:
Friday, 11/19/10 at Mercer Music school @ Noon. Martha Malone and I will be doing some vocal jazz [well, **I** will be playing, not singing!]
- Free Concert: Friday December 3 at 7:30 PM. The Macon State Chamber Choir will perform at First Presbyterian church [downtown Macon on Mulberry street, across the street from the Grand Opera House].
Concert report must be turned in at or before the Final exam the next week.
Tuesday, November 09, 2010
Our recordings from 11/8/2010 - posted online!
http://www.last.fm/music/Tom+Rule/Music+Appreciation+Experiments
The last 4 tracks are what we recorded the other day. They are freely downloadable - at least for a while - so fetch your copy and amaze your friends and family!
The last 4 tracks are what we recorded the other day. They are freely downloadable - at least for a while - so fetch your copy and amaze your friends and family!
Fall 2010 Recordings posted online
You can listen to them at
http://www.last.fm/music/Tom+Rule/Music+Appreciation+Experiments
======================================= Tom Rule, the MacMusicGuy http://www.tomrule.info/
Internet Radio http://www.last.fm/music/Tom+Rule/
Bands http://www.tom-and-co.com http://www.moselydixonproject.com
Royalty-Free Broadcast Tracks http://www.GovAccessMusic.com ========================================
Monday, November 08, 2010
Vista/WebCT --> 20th C powerpoint
Thanks for letting me know it wasn't there.
I had an older version stashed on the server - it mostly matches what I've been using in class. I'll try to upload the newest version this afternoon - if I'm successful you'll see 2 versions inside the 20tn Century folder.
I had an older version stashed on the server - it mostly matches what I've been using in class. I'll try to upload the newest version this afternoon - if I'm successful you'll see 2 versions inside the 20tn Century folder.
Saturday, November 06, 2010
Why writing well is important
"7 reasons why writing well will help your music career"
actually fits into just about ANY career, unless you end
up in a cubicle your entire life....
.... which is NOT very likely.
CLICK HERE to read the article.
Treat those conert reports like an English paper -
write well!
============================= Tom Rule, the MacMusicGuy http://www.tomrule.info/ Internet Radio http://www.last.fm/music/Tom+Rule/ Bands http://www.tom-and-co.com http://www.moselydixonproject.com Royalty-Free Broadcast Tracks http://www.GovAccessMusic.com =============================
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Vista/WebCT Gradebook note
Had a question about all the grades in the gradebook because someone was concerned about all the "missing grades" that show up there.
When you go into your gradebook, you'll see this list of grades:
What's happening here is that there are several columns from previous semesters that Vista will not let me delete. The only grades that will count are highlighted above in red - there will be one more column for the Romantic/20th century test, of course.
When you go into your gradebook, you'll see this list of grades:
| Midterm | |||||||
| Final | |||||||
| Stupid Sample Test | |||||||
| ElMedRen | |||||||
| BarClass | |||||||
| Rom | |||||||
| Final F09 | |||||||
| Presentation | |||||||
| Concert 1 | |||||||
| Concert 2 | |||||||
| Absences | |||||||
| Spr2010 ElMedREn | |||||||
| BarClassSp | |||||||
| Rom20th | |||||||
| Spr2010Final | |||||||
| F10 E-M-R | |||||||
| BaroClass-Fall2010 |
What's happening here is that there are several columns from previous semesters that Vista will not let me delete. The only grades that will count are highlighted above in red - there will be one more column for the Romantic/20th century test, of course.
Monday, October 18, 2010
A few comments about class stuff......
1) We're just past mid-term, and I have seen a grand total of 4 concert reports. Remember when I kept hounding you about not waiting until the last minute? There's a real good reason why I said that.
Your report is due by the second class after the concert, and they MUST be completed by the last day of the semester (Friday 12/3).
The only exception is if you attend the Macon State Chamber Choir concert on Friday, Dec. 3 down at First Prebyterian church downtown. If you do, your writeup is due at the final exam.
These concert reports count 15% of your final grade - so if you don't do ANY, the maximum possible grade for the class is automatically an 85.
2) A few notes about the in-class presentations: At mid-term I begin grading them more stringently because you have seen half the class do them already, and know what works and what doesn't as an audience member.
Your report is due by the second class after the concert, and they MUST be completed by the last day of the semester (Friday 12/3).
The only exception is if you attend the Macon State Chamber Choir concert on Friday, Dec. 3 down at First Prebyterian church downtown. If you do, your writeup is due at the final exam.
These concert reports count 15% of your final grade - so if you don't do ANY, the maximum possible grade for the class is automatically an 85.
2) A few notes about the in-class presentations: At mid-term I begin grading them more stringently because you have seen half the class do them already, and know what works and what doesn't as an audience member.
- Make CERTAIN you understand what you are about to say - don't just pull a definition off the web and read it.
- Know your material well enough so you can TALK to your audience, not read to them!
- LOOK at your audience - they'd much rather see your face than your backside, which is what everyone sitting near the door gets to see when you face the computer screen.
- SPEAK UP. SPEAK SLOWER than you think. ENUNCIATE.
- Make sure you cover ALL the parts listed in the syllabus. If you're not sure - about the form, for example - give it your best shot, tell everyone what you think, and then say "This is my best guess". We can have a conversation about it, which helps everybody in the class!
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Concerts......
Don't forget that Mercer has several concerts a month - many are free. CHECK THE CALENDAR HERE.
Founded just four years ago, Credo Quartet was formed with a desire to sing choral music of many countries, musical styles and traditions. This esteemed vocal ensemble produces fresh interpretations of many well-known choral works that are customarily sung by larger choirs. Though the group is very young, each of its members has great working experiences in leading choirs of Saint-Petersburg, Russia.
The ensemble’s name “Credo” is of Latin origin and means “I believe”. All members perform for Orthodox churches during the many beautiful liturgies of the Eastern tradition. Each of the singers professes a deep belief in the ministry of their musical works and they demonstrate a great understanding of the substance of the Divine Liturgies. Indeed, they are believers in the grace, beauty and divine nature of the gift of singing.
The Russian Orthodox musical heritage comprises the heart of Credo’s repertoire. However, the quartet also engages the listener with an array of Russian folk songs, western classical music styles, contemporary works by Russian and international composers.
Participants -
Irina Grinberg — soprano, director
Born in Nizhniy Novgorod. Musical training at the Nizhniy Novgorod Musical College. Later she studied choral conducting under professor D. N. Ardentov at the Academy of Arts in Saint-Petersburg. While a student in the Academy, Irina started performing choral works with the Saint-Petersburg Chamber chorus under N. N. Kornev’s management. In 2000 she organized the vocal ensemble “Credo” which she directs to this day.
Alexey Barashev — tenor
Born in Saint-Petersburg. He graguated from Saint-Petersburg Rimsky-Korsakov’s Conservatory with major in coral conducting. He began serious vocal training and concert activity in 1997. To date Alexey has worked with many choral groups of Saint-Petersburg. He has been in the ensemble since 2007
Marina Chihacheva — mezzo-soprano
Born in Saint-Petersburg. Marina finished college at the Saint-Petersburg Rimsky-Korsakov Conservatory. She started her concert career as a soloist with one of city ensembles. Marina first encountered the art of choral singing in chamber chorus “Rossika”. At the present time she sings in the chorus of the Fiodorovskiy Cathedral in Tsarskoe Selo. Since the organization of “Credo” she has been the unchanging mezzo-soprano of the ensemble.
Yan Largin — bass
Born in Saint-Petersburg. He is a graduate of the Glinka Choral Academy and Saint-Petersburg Rimsky-Korsakov’s Conservatory with major in coral conducting. He has sung in numerous chamber choirs, including the Saint-Petersburg Chamber Choir and has performed with well-known directors internationally. He has been in the ensemble since 2003.
Also coming:
Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church
presents the
Credo Vocal Quartet
in a concert
Saturday, October 23rd at 7:00pm.
The Russian quartet will enterain with a program of Russian sacred songs, Russian folk songs, and contemporary songs.
The ensemble’s name “Credo” is of Latin origin and means “I believe”. All members perform for Orthodox churches during the many beautiful liturgies of the Eastern tradition. Each of the singers professes a deep belief in the ministry of their musical works and they demonstrate a great understanding of the substance of the Divine Liturgies. Indeed, they are believers in the grace, beauty and divine nature of the gift of singing.
The Russian Orthodox musical heritage comprises the heart of Credo’s repertoire. However, the quartet also engages the listener with an array of Russian folk songs, western classical music styles, contemporary works by Russian and international composers.
Tickets $10 in advance [call 478-405-5128], $15 at the door
Kids 12 & under free
859 First Street, Downtown Macon
(A few blocks west & down the hill from the Medical Center)
Participants -
Irina Grinberg — soprano, director
Born in Nizhniy Novgorod. Musical training at the Nizhniy Novgorod Musical College. Later she studied choral conducting under professor D. N. Ardentov at the Academy of Arts in Saint-Petersburg. While a student in the Academy, Irina started performing choral works with the Saint-Petersburg Chamber chorus under N. N. Kornev’s management. In 2000 she organized the vocal ensemble “Credo” which she directs to this day.
Alexey Barashev — tenor
Born in Saint-Petersburg. He graguated from Saint-Petersburg Rimsky-Korsakov’s Conservatory with major in coral conducting. He began serious vocal training and concert activity in 1997. To date Alexey has worked with many choral groups of Saint-Petersburg. He has been in the ensemble since 2007
Marina Chihacheva — mezzo-soprano
Born in Saint-Petersburg. Marina finished college at the Saint-Petersburg Rimsky-Korsakov Conservatory. She started her concert career as a soloist with one of city ensembles. Marina first encountered the art of choral singing in chamber chorus “Rossika”. At the present time she sings in the chorus of the Fiodorovskiy Cathedral in Tsarskoe Selo. Since the organization of “Credo” she has been the unchanging mezzo-soprano of the ensemble.
Yan Largin — bass
Born in Saint-Petersburg. He is a graduate of the Glinka Choral Academy and Saint-Petersburg Rimsky-Korsakov’s Conservatory with major in coral conducting. He has sung in numerous chamber choirs, including the Saint-Petersburg Chamber Choir and has performed with well-known directors internationally. He has been in the ensemble since 2003.
Thursday, October 07, 2010
Ever heard of a Bowafridgeaphone ???????
You can see it AND hear it here:
the Bowafridgeaphone
===========================
Tom Rule, the MacMusicGuy
http://www.tomrule.info/
Internet Radio
http://www.last.fm/music/Tom+Rule/
Bands
http://www.tom-and-co.com
http://www.moselydixonproject.com
Royalty-Free Broadcast Tracks
http://www.GovAccessMusic.com
============================
Monday, September 13, 2010
Vids from Mond 9/13/10 class
Baroque example - watch for the continuo.
Harpshichord Demo
Listen how the sound changes as he plays, and watch for when the keys on the second keyboard move as he plays the first keyboard.
The group Robin R talked about
Rodrigo y Gabriela "Hora Zero" live @ Eurockéenne
Wednesday, September 01, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
Free Concert!
Monday, September 13
Mercer Brass Quintet presents
American Music for Brass
7:30 p.m.
McCorkle Music Building,
Free admission
http://www2.mercer.edu/Music/calendar.htm for several upcoming FREE concerts at Mercer - including an organ concert on Sept 28 at Christ Church [Walnut Street]
Directions
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Mccorkle+Music+Building+1329+Adams+Street+Macon,+GA&sll=32.830125,-83.672047&sspn=0.101403,0.15398&ie=UTF8&hq=Mccorkle+Music+Building&hnear=1329+Adams+St,+Macon,+Bibb,+Georgia+31201&ll=32.834453,-83.644216&spn=0.013126,0.019248&z=16&iwloc=near
Vids from Monday 8/29/10 class
Tuba Quartet - this would be MUCH better live!
Click here to view on youtube
The Music Technology demo I threw together - just a quick something to demo the technologies mentioned in class.
Click here to view on youtube
Click here to view on youtube
The Music Technology demo I threw together - just a quick something to demo the technologies mentioned in class.
Click here to view on youtube
Friday, August 27, 2010
Music Technology: Good or Evil?
The Good?
From the New York Times
For Pianist, Software Is Replacing Sonatas
Read more @ http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/21/arts/music/21taub.html?_r=1&ref=technology
The Evil?
From Wired:
Simon Cowell’s X Factor Singing Contest Auto-Tuned Contestants
Read More @ http://www.wired.com/epicenter/2010/08/auto-tuned-xfactor-contestants/#ixzz0xopGFinF
Ahead of the game: 200th Anniversary of 2 Romantic era giants
The Romantic era-a time of soaring melodies and outsize personalities-spawned numerous tormented souls who burst onto the scene like shooting stars, produced exquisite art, then plunged rapidly into insanity, illness or an early demise, spent by their own glorious flames.
Two of the greatest such figures are celebrating their 200th anniversaries this year: Frédéric Chopin (1810-1849), a lyrical genius whose impeccably crafted music was marked, as Franz Liszt noted, by a "deep melancholy"; and Robert Schumann (1810-1856), whose sense of fantasy overwhelmed his art and, ultimately, his mind.
Two of the greatest such figures are celebrating their 200th anniversaries this year: Frédéric Chopin (1810-1849), a lyrical genius whose impeccably crafted music was marked, as Franz Liszt noted, by a "deep melancholy"; and Robert Schumann (1810-1856), whose sense of fantasy overwhelmed his art and, ultimately, his mind.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Quick note from Wed 8/18
1) I just loaded the Disk One tracks listing into the iTunes database, so at least Disc 1 will come up with titles. None of the others disks will come up with anything [unless someone else has already punched in the titles and uploaded them]
2) The Kamien Connect link on the right sidebar is working now. [I had an extra / at the end of the url].
2) The Kamien Connect link on the right sidebar is working now. [I had an extra / at the end of the url].
Music App FAQ
{from this webpage }
What is Music Appreciation?
Music Appreciation is a course that has different goals depending on the instructor, the department, and the school where it is taught. In general, though, it is designed to heighten your enjoyment of music by improving your listening skills, increasing your knowledge, and exposing you to new styles and forms of music.Most courses concentrate on what is commonly known as "classical" music; symphonies, sontatas, chamber music, opera, and other forms of art music. Many courses, though, also introduce music from different parts of the world as well as more "popular" music styles like jazz, rock, or musical theater.
Why do I need to learn about music in order to enjoy it?
The short answer is "You don't!" You have been listening to (and probably enjoying) music for years. However, music listening is a skill, and some kinds of music are an acquired taste. In a sense music is like wine. Your first few sips might not be enjoyable, but as your experience grows you find your palate growing more and more discerning. Eventually, you develop your own taste in wine. In music appreciation, your listening palate will become more discriminating as well. You may learn that you like some kinds of music that didn't previously appeal to you. You may also learn to hear much more in the music you already know and enjoy.What is the difference between listening and hearing?
An excellent question! Perhaps the easiest distinction to make is that hearing is an involuntary activity that requires no active participation on your part. If you're awake and your ears are exposed to the air you WILL hear the sounds around you. When you start to pay attention to those sounds, you move from hearing to listening.Listening itself can happen at different levels of intensity. You may carry on a conversation with a friend while still listening to music or the television. However, the amount of information or satisfaction you get from either activity is directly related to the amount of focus you give to it. In the same way, listening to music can provide many different kinds of experiences. Listening to the radio as a background to study is much different that listening to a recording through headphones or attending a live concert.
It's important to realize that all of these different kinds of listening have value. But, as in the example above, your satisfaction with the experience will depend to a large degree on your own focus.
What is classical music? Why is it called classical?
"Classical" is a term that has two different meanings when it comes to music. In the broadest sense, classical music refers to music of certain forms and genres (symphony, string quartet, sonata, etc.) for certain instrumental combinations (solo violin, symphony orchestra, string quartet, etc) and intended for concert performance. Like many other things in the today's world this definition has become increasingly less useful as other forms and genres of music contributed to and borrowed from the traditions of classical music. In general, though, it's as good a definition as any.In a narrower sense "classical" refers to a specific period in music history and a specific set of stylistic traits. This is the dominant music style of the late 18th century in Europe as exemplified by the music of Haydn, Mozart, and the young Beethoven. The hallmarks of this style are balance, clarity, and proportion. These qualities reflect the artistic sensibilities of ancient Greece and Rome, the so-called "Classical" civilizations.
What's wrong with the music I like now?
Nothing, and anyone who says differently is just plain wrong (even if it's your instructor). Music in all of its forms is one of the greatest expressions of our humanity, and it all has some value at some time in some circumstance. This is not to say that all music is created equal, or that all music is equally good by some kind of universal artistic standard. The point is that all music provides some kind of window into the experience of being human. It might give pleasure, provoke dancing, encourage reflection, promote relaxation, incite anger, or inspire joy.There are as many varieties of musical expression as there are facets of human emotion. As your awareness of and appreciation for different musical experiences grow, you'll discover new worlds of sound, artistry, and meaning.
I can't read music. Will I be able to get anything out of this class?
Yes! In fact, this kind of course is designed expressly for someone without the ability to read music. This course is about listening and understanding. While your textbook contains a number of examples of music notation, they are not essential. You'll be able to follow the listening guides and other text material perfectly well without them.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
BEGIN FALL 2010
BEGIN FALL 2010
If you've already taken the class, then you probably ought to UNSUBSCRIBE from this [unless you enjoy being pelted with mail relating to a class you've already taken!] There is a link to unsubscribeat the bottom of the email.]
Relating to Parking:
All students will need to secure the new 2010-2011 Macon State College parking permit.
MACON CAMPUS
Please bring your Macon State Student I.D. card and your license plate number to the kiosk in the Student Life Center lobby as follows:
Wednesday, August 11 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Thursday, August 12 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Friday, August 13 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Monday, August 16 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday, August 17 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
After August 17, parking permits will be available at the Department of Public Safety located on the first floor of the Sciences Annex from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Thursday, July 01, 2010
A Copyright Story
A songwriter - Jason Robert Brown - took it upon himself to peruse a site where people "trade" files they have accumulated [though the word "trade" is a lie, as used here].
He emailed members of the site and asked them to stop giving away his songs - and then wrote about it. It is an interesting read, and a good explanation of how this whole copyright thing plays out for artists - who still have bills to pay!
http://www.jasonrobertbrown.com/weblog/2010/06/fighting_with_teenagers_a_copy.php
His wife, Georgia Stitt, also wrote an interesting article about this problem:
He emailed members of the site and asked them to stop giving away his songs - and then wrote about it. It is an interesting read, and a good explanation of how this whole copyright thing plays out for artists - who still have bills to pay!
http://www.jasonrobertbrown.com/weblog/2010/06/fighting_with_teenagers_a_copy.php
His wife, Georgia Stitt, also wrote an interesting article about this problem:
I'll stop telling the story for just a minute to explain why I was getting angry. For starters, selling or trading copyrighted material to which you do not own the copyright is illegal. So we can start there. But further, selling or trading copyrighted material which I own and sell as part of how I make my living is totally invasive, violating, and well, illegal. If someone distributes a piece of music that I could otherwise have sold, that distributor has stolen directly from me -- taken money out of my pocket. And if that music is published (in my case by Hal Leonard), then you're stealing from them, too. When you're talking about one piece of music, $8 here or there, I suppose it's not a huge deal. But once you open up your sheet music files to the world wide web, we're talking about thousands of dollars at stake, and suddenly it matters.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Experimental Instruments
So this Italian guy takes apart instruments, puts them together in various ways, makes music with them - and ends up as a "featured soloist" in a major feature film.
Interesting stuff!
The video:
http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid1815813330?bctid=90707126001
The Wired Article:
http://www.wired.com/underwire/2010/06/gallery-strange-instruments
Interesting stuff!
The video:
http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid1815813330?bctid=90707126001
The Wired Article:
http://www.wired.com/underwire/2010/06/gallery-strange-instruments
The BassoForte
The Experibass
Wednesday, May 05, 2010
Student Gradebook
I just discovered that the downloadable gradebook does NOT take into account absences - so if you have already calculated your grade using that tool, you may have to adjust the score.
Per the syllabus:
0-2 absences = no change
3 absences = -3 points
4 = -6 points
5 = -9 points
6 = automatic F
Monday, May 03, 2010
Our class recordings......
can be found at
http://www.last.fm/music/Tom+Rule/Music+Appreciation+Experiments
I've also enabled them so you can download them & preserve your performes for posterior I mean posterity [or use them to annoy a sibling....].
http://www.last.fm/music/Tom+Rule/Music+Appreciation+Experiments
I've also enabled them so you can download them & preserve your performes for posterior I mean posterity [or use them to annoy a sibling....].
Monday, April 19, 2010
20th Century roundup
If 20th century music history is a chocolate cream pie, all we did in class was smell the aroma - we didn't even touch the thing! But since we'd all like to go home at semester's end, we have to move on to America's Classical Music on Wednesday.
Before we do, though, I want to play the piece below for you. It ties together several of the 20th C characteristics we've seen:
Take a listen and see if you can connect what you are hearing with the concepts we discussed in class.
Before we do, though, I want to play the piece below for you. It ties together several of the 20th C characteristics we've seen:
- it uses noise as a sound source,
- uses rhythmic speech as a melody,
- sometimes has a melody & sometimes doesn't,
- and requires a lot of technology.
Take a listen and see if you can connect what you are hearing with the concepts we discussed in class.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
YouTube - Remember when I said in class.......
that it was a copyright infringement case waiting to happen?
It's happened - actually, it's BEEN happening. Meida gian Viacom sued Google (which owns youtube) over copyright infringement. This is a case that is going to take years and teh lawyers are going to get rich.
The lawsuit began in 2007 and is asking for over $1 billion in damages.
CLICK HERE for some details, including screenshots of documents made public this week. There are some interesting back-and-forth comments on that site, and a few "whoops!" instances.
It's happened - actually, it's BEEN happening. Meida gian Viacom sued Google (which owns youtube) over copyright infringement. This is a case that is going to take years and teh lawyers are going to get rich.
The lawsuit began in 2007 and is asking for over $1 billion in damages.
CLICK HERE for some details, including screenshots of documents made public this week. There are some interesting back-and-forth comments on that site, and a few "whoops!" instances.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
CDs & your iPod/MP3 player [Aug 10 version]
I've been surprised at the number of people who have no idea how to transfer the music on your CDs to your MP3 player/iPod. The details will vary depending on whether you are using Macs or Windows, and what your player is/how it works. however, here is a quick idea on how to get the tracks into a more protable format.
The directions are going to be vague, but should help.
iPod/iPhone owners (this works for both Macs & Windows machines):
You've got a few options. YES, you can use iTunes. You can also use Windows Media Player, or any of several MP3 rippers out there (there are many that are free. Some are good, some not so good...).
The short version: After "ripping" the files [i.e. getting them copied over from the CDs to the hard drive] - for a lot of players, all you have to do is open up two windows - one from the computer where the audio is stashed, the other to your MP3 player. Then drag the files to the MP3 player to copy them over.
The longer version:
If you are going to use iTunes:
I'm not familiar enough with Windows Media Player to really type up anything helpful - if you know it well enought to give some detailed instructions, type 'em up and send them to me. I'll post it!
The directions are going to be vague, but should help.
iPod/iPhone owners (this works for both Macs & Windows machines):
- Call up iTunes. [If you don't have iTunes on your computer, go to iTunes.com and downlaod/install it].
- Check the iTunes preferences. There's an option to set how iTunes will import CDs - I suggest using "Apple Lossless" as the format. If you really don't have a lot of hard drive space on your computer OR not a lot of memory on your player, use MP3 set to 256. If you REALLY don't have much room, set it to 128.
- Pop in a CD. iTunes will either automatically start importing the CD, or will ask you what to do, or will just add the CD to the list, there on the right.
- If it doesn't import automatically, click on the name of the CD. Highlight the tracks you want to import. (Click the top track, then shift-click the bottom one.)
- In the advanced menu, select "Create Apple Lossless" or "Create MP3..." - it'll say something similar to that!
- Plug your i-whatever to the computer. It should show up in the right-hand column in iTunes.
- Click your music library icon [It says "Music", at the top].
- Select some file. Click-n-drag them to the iPhone/iPod icon on the right.
- The files should copy over.
You've got a few options. YES, you can use iTunes. You can also use Windows Media Player, or any of several MP3 rippers out there (there are many that are free. Some are good, some not so good...).
The short version: After "ripping" the files [i.e. getting them copied over from the CDs to the hard drive] - for a lot of players, all you have to do is open up two windows - one from the computer where the audio is stashed, the other to your MP3 player. Then drag the files to the MP3 player to copy them over.
The longer version:
If you are going to use iTunes:
- Follow steps 1-5 in the iPhone list above.
- Plug your player into the USB port.
- Macs: You should see the player show up on the Desktop. Windows: Open up My Computer.
- Doubleclick the icon to open a window. Slide the window over a bit.
- Macs: Open up where iTunes is stashing your files [usually Documents-->Music--->;iTunes, then nose around the folders. try looking inside the "Compilations" folder.)
- Windows: Open up My Documents---->My Music--->iTunes. Nose around the folders there - look for the "Compilations" folder.
- Drag the files from the Computer---->iTunes window to the MP3 player window.
I'm not familiar enough with Windows Media Player to really type up anything helpful - if you know it well enought to give some detailed instructions, type 'em up and send them to me. I'll post it!
Monday, February 01, 2010
Links from Feb 1 class presentation (Renaissance)
Recorder example - "chests" of instruments
Palestrina Motet
Palestrina Mass
Madrigals: La Guerre, Fair Phyllis
Instrumental example
Just for Fun: PDQ Bach Sonata Immorata
--------------------More about PDQ Bach
Palestrina Motet
Palestrina Mass
Madrigals: La Guerre, Fair Phyllis
Instrumental example
Just for Fun: PDQ Bach Sonata Immorata
--------------------More about PDQ Bach
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Monday, January 25, 2010
Music Technology video
Here is the Music Tech demo (WARNING: high cheese factor!!!) that I mentioned in class. You'll see a quickie examples of a Synth, a sample-playback instrument, MIDI, and how you record MIDI and audio on a computer using these technologies.
Incidentally, the audio I played from the DSi in class today formed the basis of a tune posted on my last.fm page. It's called "Fun" and can be heard at http://www.last.fm/music/Tom+Rule/One+Syllable+Songs.
I worked up that bit you heard in class today, then transferred each track of audio into the computer - and added additional tracks as well as some effects on the DSi audio before mixing it down to 2 tracks and loading it into last.fm.
Incidentally, the audio I played from the DSi in class today formed the basis of a tune posted on my last.fm page. It's called "Fun" and can be heard at http://www.last.fm/music/Tom+Rule/One+Syllable+Songs.
I worked up that bit you heard in class today, then transferred each track of audio into the computer - and added additional tracks as well as some effects on the DSi audio before mixing it down to 2 tracks and loading it into last.fm.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Monday, November 30, 2009
Jazz - something to study
I've loaded the Jazz PPT I use in class to WebCT - download it for your notes.
If you don't have Microsoft Office on your machine, I strongly suggest you check out the FREE OpenOffice (available for Macs as well - or you can use Neo-office if you have an older version of the MacOS).
Download it, install it, and you'll be able to open/view/edit/create Office docs without paying any $.
If you don't have Microsoft Office on your machine, I strongly suggest you check out the FREE OpenOffice (available for Macs as well - or you can use Neo-office if you have an older version of the MacOS).
Download it, install it, and you'll be able to open/view/edit/create Office docs without paying any $.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
VIdeos shown in class - Beethoven's 5th, double-stops, harmonics
These are the Beethoven's 5th videos I showed in class today. Enjoy!
Toscanini
Karajan
New Horizons in Music Appreciation
The Argument
Redneck Tenors
Redneck Tenors @ America's Got Talent
Double Stops
Harmonics - listen to the violin soloist playing TWO harmonics at the same time. It's a combination of harmonics and double-stopping.
Toscanini
Karajan
New Horizons in Music Appreciation
The Argument
Redneck Tenors
Redneck Tenors @ America's Got Talent
Double Stops
Harmonics - listen to the violin soloist playing TWO harmonics at the same time. It's a combination of harmonics and double-stopping.
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
Test Suggestions
1) Make sure you view the video thing, posted on the blog here.
2) There are some study sheet suggestions on the blog as well. These are less detailed lists and more suggestions for things to pay attention to: Baroque, Classical.
Have a great break - see you Monday at the LIBRARY!
2) There are some study sheet suggestions on the blog as well. These are less detailed lists and more suggestions for things to pay attention to: Baroque, Classical.
3) You might want to pay attention to the differences in the music between the two eras - what is different, musically speaking, between the two eras?
4) SOmething else to think about - what's the difference in the Baroque-era SOLO concerto and the Concerto Grosso ?
Have a great break - see you Monday at the LIBRARY!
Sunday, October 04, 2009
No Class Monday - Instead, watch this video on Classical era
I'm sick - as you'll be able to hear in this video. Rather than infecting all of you, I decided it would be better to create this - hopefully my machine hasn't been infected with this virus!
It's probably NOT flu, thankfully... more likely an upper respiratory infection.
We'll double up on the presentations Wednesday. Meanwhile, watch this and take some notes.
Click on the play button, there at the bottom. You'll need speakers or headphones.
It's probably NOT flu, thankfully... more likely an upper respiratory infection.
We'll double up on the presentations Wednesday. Meanwhile, watch this and take some notes.
Click on the play button, there at the bottom. You'll need speakers or headphones.
Rule Classical era Last part
View more presentations from maconmacguy.
Friday, October 02, 2009
Is it music if a computer composed it?
A professor has written a computer program that analyzes a composer's music, and then composes a new piece in the style of that composer. Interesting stuff - and it really raises a question about what music is, and what makes it "good".
The original article is at:
...and here are some mp3s of the machine's work:
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Monday, September 21, 2009
Lego Harpsichord
A Lego Harpsichord?Yup. A guy actually built a full working harpsichord out of legos. Really.
Details here.
You can hear it here.
A short Video is here.
Details here.
You can hear it here.
A short Video is here.
Tuesday, September 08, 2009
The British Audio Archives
The sound archive of the British Library (trust me, it's HUGE) has gone
online - for free! There is a TON of stuff here you'll never hear anywhere
else - if you have a few minutes, take a listen!
online - for free! There is a TON of stuff here you'll never hear anywhere
else - if you have a few minutes, take a listen!
The article is at
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2009/sep/03/british-library-traditional-music
There are several soundfiles in the article you can hear.
The archive is located at
http://sounds.bl.uk/
----
This might be a good break from the Music Appreciation test!
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Instruments of the Orchestra Links
Instruments of the Orchestra guide
http://www.bbc.co.uk/orchestras/guide/
ID the Instrument game
http://www.thirteen.org/publicarts/orchestra/
Flashier tour of the Orchestra
http://www.sfskids.org/flash/instruments/instruments.swf?dom=3
---
Plus links to the "cheesy Music Tech videos" to be shown in class:
Synthesizer
Sample Playback kybd
MIDI as a word processor?
MIDI & Softsynths
MIDI recording
http://www.bbc.co.uk/orchestras/guide/
ID the Instrument game
http://www.thirteen.org/publicarts/orchestra/
Flashier tour of the Orchestra
http://www.sfskids.org/flash/instruments/instruments.swf?dom=3
---
Plus links to the "cheesy Music Tech videos" to be shown in class:
Synthesizer
Sample Playback kybd
MIDI as a word processor?
MIDI & Softsynths
MIDI recording
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Is it music to play an entire building?
from http://www.wtop.com/?nid=114&sid=1735146
David Byrne makes music with London building
from http://www.roundhouse.org.uk/whats-on/productions/playing-the-building--3268
Playing the Building: An Installation by David Byrne
from http://www.davidbyrne.com/art/art_projects/playing_the_building/index.php
Playing the Building
Playing the Building is a sound installation in which the infrastructure, the physical plant of the building, is converted into a giant musical instrument. Devices are attached to the building structure — to the metal beams and pillars, the heating pipes, the water pipes — and are used to make these things produce sound. The activations are of three types: wind, vibration, striking. The devices do not produce sound themselves, but they cause the building elements to vibrate, resonate and oscillate so that the building itself becomes a very large musical instrument.Click here for a video
Is this music?
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Monday, April 27, 2009
More Music Technology - verrrry cool!
This was an encore of a piece performed by a couple of "Tesla Coils" - which are basically gizmoe capable of generating very high voltages. The sound you ehar is actually the sound of the electric arcs produced by the coils - I don't know how they tuned them.
This was the final night of the SEAMUS convention, an Electro-Acoustic music making association.
This was the final night of the SEAMUS convention, an Electro-Acoustic music making association.
Friday, April 24, 2009
An interesting Friday tidbit.....
Since I was talking about music technolgoy the other day...
here's an article about a HANDMADE turntable... partly made from a Harley Davidson!
Enjoy your weekend!
here's an article about a HANDMADE turntable... partly made from a Harley Davidson!
Enjoy your weekend!
Monday, April 20, 2009
Links from today's class - painos, synths, and screencasts!
Modded Piano article
Analog Synth/Dancer/Video thing
Demo of the Minimoog
Buchla Modular synth demo
Moog Modular Synth demo
Nintendo DS synth - the Korg DS-10
Analog Synth/Dancer/Video thing
Demo of the Minimoog
Buchla Modular synth demo
Moog Modular Synth demo
Nintendo DS synth - the Korg DS-10
"TALK RADIO" Screencast
Talk Radio Screencast
View more presentations from maconmacguy.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
New Musical Instruments @ Ga Tech
Original Article here
"It was like a low-stakes X Prize for music as musicians, inventors and hobbyists competed against each other in the first annual Guthman Musical Instrument Competition at Georgia Tech for cash prizes of $10,000."There are some interesting things in this article. Take a look at the some of the creations that were shown! The article includes sound AND video.
Friday, February 13, 2009
The Worlds Most Unwanted Song
A tidbit for a Friday the 13th:
I ran across an article describing the World's Most Unwanted Song and what musical characteristics it would have (it would have a large orchestra that included the accordian and bagpipe, be over 25 minutes long, and also have an operatic soprano).
I ran across an article describing the World's Most Unwanted Song and what musical characteristics it would have (it would have a large orchestra that included the accordian and bagpipe, be over 25 minutes long, and also have an operatic soprano).
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
For you guitarists out there
You may have heard about "virtual" stuff when recording - you have a piece of software that can make your guitar sound like it's plugged into any amp, using any mic, etc. Since it's software it's easy to make changes.
There are also "virtual instruments" - you run a midi cable from your keyboard to your computer, and your computer can make sounds like any of a gazillion synthesizers.
Now they've come up with a "chameleon" guitar at MIT - where you can make it sound like just about anything. Very interesting - read the article and watch the short video.
There are also "virtual instruments" - you run a midi cable from your keyboard to your computer, and your computer can make sounds like any of a gazillion synthesizers.
Now they've come up with a "chameleon" guitar at MIT - where you can make it sound like just about anything. Very interesting - read the article and watch the short video.
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
Monday, November 24, 2008
More info on Copyright
Ran across an article from an Oneonta, NY newspaper that gives some practical explanations about copyright from a songwriter's perspective. It's short and to the point, and might clear up some confusion.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Copyright links - interesting articles to read
These are link to articles where you can see the effect of copyright. In both of these article you can see the problems some people face because fo copyright - however, they really don't tell you the whole OTHER side of the story (these people are using other people's work, who should get paid)
http://mediamemo.allthingsd.com/20081106/digital-music-deal-nearly-done-but-web-radio-darling-pandora-not-out-of-the-woods/
http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2008/nov/08/collector-keeps/?partner=RSS
Here's a take on the content owner's side:
http://blog.copyrightalliance.org/2008/11/copyright-in-a-free-market/
http://mediamemo.allthingsd.com/20081106/digital-music-deal-nearly-done-but-web-radio-darling-pandora-not-out-of-the-woods/
http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2008/nov/08/collector-keeps/?partner=RSS
Here's a take on the content owner's side:
http://blog.copyrightalliance.org/2008/11/copyright-in-a-free-market/
Monday, November 10, 2008
How Math Unraveled a Beatle's Mystery
One of those "hmmmmm....." things I run across. The Beatle's "Hard Day's Night" starts with a mysterious chord that no one has really figured out.
Read about it here
Quite interesting! The article has a sample of the opener, if you don't what this is all about.
It took Dalhousie University professor Jason Brown six months and some
advanced mathematical analytical techniques to crack the code
Read about it here
Quite interesting! The article has a sample of the opener, if you don't what this is all about.
Sunday, November 02, 2008
Classical/Romantic Test - NOTE
Your score listed in WebCT is based on "out of 81 points".
I'm curving the test - instead, it's out of 72 points.
For example, if WebCT says you scored 66 - instead of 81%, your score is 92%.
I'm going to ask for some feedback on the test in class.
Get ready for the 20th Century - it's a wild ride!
I'm curving the test - instead, it's out of 72 points.
For example, if WebCT says you scored 66 - instead of 81%, your score is 92%.
I'm going to ask for some feedback on the test in class.
Get ready for the 20th Century - it's a wild ride!
Monday, September 15, 2008
Medieval/Renaissance Notes
Medieval Period
450-1450
Primary music: Chant, Mass
Ordinary vs. proper
Secular, instrumental music in Medieval
Organum = development of Polyphony
Step 1 – second part marched in Lockstep
Step 2 – second part many notes to Chant’s one
Step 3 – add rhythms (measured rhythm, Notre Dame)
New Age (Ars Nova) – Secular music rampant, new rhythms, notation system updated
Music written that DOESN’T use chant as basis
Machaut
Renaissance
1450-1600
Music Characteristics
Word Painting (illustrate text with melody line)
Texture: Polyphonic
A Cappella (“as in church”) – unaccompanied
Syllabic vs. melismatic
Gently flowing Rhythm
Say this phrase:Hail Mary Full of Grace The Lord is with you, serene Virgin.
Music Types
Sacred:
Motet
Mass
Secular:
Madrigal
Instrumental
How to make a living
Church: as a monk. Steady, traditional, high quality.
Court/Patron: higher profile, not much job security. Just beginning to happen in this period.
Youtube Video Links used in class
Short People
Organum
Palestrina Mass
Madrigal: La Guerre
Madrigal: Fair Phyllis
PDQ Bach: Sonata Innomorata
450-1450
Primary music: Chant, Mass
Ordinary vs. proper
Secular, instrumental music in Medieval
Organum = development of Polyphony
Step 1 – second part marched in Lockstep
Step 2 – second part many notes to Chant’s one
Step 3 – add rhythms (measured rhythm, Notre Dame)
New Age (Ars Nova) – Secular music rampant, new rhythms, notation system updated
Music written that DOESN’T use chant as basis
Machaut
Renaissance
1450-1600
Music Characteristics
Word Painting (illustrate text with melody line)
Texture: Polyphonic
A Cappella (“as in church”) – unaccompanied
Syllabic vs. melismatic
Gently flowing Rhythm
Say this phrase:Hail Mary Full of Grace The Lord is with you, serene Virgin.
Music Types
Sacred:
Motet
Mass
Secular:
Madrigal
Instrumental
How to make a living
Church: as a monk. Steady, traditional, high quality.
Court/Patron: higher profile, not much job security. Just beginning to happen in this period.
Youtube Video Links used in class
Short People
Organum
Palestrina Mass
Madrigal: La Guerre
Madrigal: Fair Phyllis
PDQ Bach: Sonata Innomorata
Monday, September 08, 2008
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