Understanding music is a hard thing to define. What is understanding music? I think that there are two levels of understanding.
The first level of understanding is a purely technical, academic understanding. Terms such as major; minor; harmonic progression; chords labeled I, V, vii, ii; terms like larghetto, andante, vivace; typical structures of pieces like symphonies, concertos, etc....and the list goes on and on.
The second level is a much more important one in my estimation. It is understanding what emotion and character a piece portrays. The ability, whether consciously or subconsciously recognized, to say "oh, that piece of music reminds me of..." or that piece makes me feel happy, angry, peaceful, excited, etc. This is direct communication to the human soul/emotional center. This communication is what makes music so beautiful.
So the next time you hear some music, be aware of the level on which you understand it and how communicative it truly is!
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Quantity vs. Quality
My post today is commenting on a blog of my own--Proud Supporters of the Columbus Symphony.
For those of you reading this that may not be aware, the Columbus Symphony Orchestra--considered by many to be the flagship arts group in Columbus--is about to be cut back drastically. These cuts which the board has proposed (working behind the musician's backs) are so severe that if they take place, there may not be a CSO anymore.
I could go into this in greater detail, but I've already posted about why I think the arts are important and why symphony orchestras are important. See earlier for more on that.
What I do want to say is that, in my estimation, it comes down to quantity vs. quality. In this situation it seems that if the cuts go through, the quantity problem--"financial instability" will have seemed to be fixed (for another year--the same situation will resurface at the end of next year).
The cuts are simply the WRONG decision because it will destroy the fine quality of the product--the musicians themselves. The "big picture" view is that there is absolutely no reason why a city the size of Columbus cannot support a full-time orchestra. What the musicians press release has stated is that it is a gross error of mismanagement by the orchestra's board of directors. I would agree with this. The board has chosen quantity over quality.
So Columbus, is it quantity or quality??
For those of you reading this that may not be aware, the Columbus Symphony Orchestra--considered by many to be the flagship arts group in Columbus--is about to be cut back drastically. These cuts which the board has proposed (working behind the musician's backs) are so severe that if they take place, there may not be a CSO anymore.
I could go into this in greater detail, but I've already posted about why I think the arts are important and why symphony orchestras are important. See earlier for more on that.
What I do want to say is that, in my estimation, it comes down to quantity vs. quality. In this situation it seems that if the cuts go through, the quantity problem--"financial instability" will have seemed to be fixed (for another year--the same situation will resurface at the end of next year).
The cuts are simply the WRONG decision because it will destroy the fine quality of the product--the musicians themselves. The "big picture" view is that there is absolutely no reason why a city the size of Columbus cannot support a full-time orchestra. What the musicians press release has stated is that it is a gross error of mismanagement by the orchestra's board of directors. I would agree with this. The board has chosen quantity over quality.
So Columbus, is it quantity or quality??
Monday, January 28, 2008
New music in my Project Playlist!
So I love the new Project Playlist application (music player above)!
I've added some new tracks above.
1. La donna e mobile from Verdi's Rigoletto - sung by Andrea Bocelli
2. Brahms: German Requiem - "Denn alles Fleish es ist wie Gras" ("All Flesh is as the Grass")
The German Requiem is the first protestant "requiem." Musically, it is a journey through various keys, which is just one of the many amazing facets of this work by Brahms. It is unknown whether or not Brahms was a Christian, but it was reported by one music historian that "Brahms kept a Bible by his bed always and it was found well-used." The clip I put up is 14.5 minutes in length, but it is well worth it...listen for the development of the piece both harmonically (key structure, melodies) and in intensity--the piece just seems to grow more and more mysterious and haunting. A very worthy setting of the biblical text "all flesh will wither as the grass." The whole idea of "from dust we are and to dust we will return" is what is depicted here.
I've added some new tracks above.
1. La donna e mobile from Verdi's Rigoletto - sung by Andrea Bocelli
2. Brahms: German Requiem - "Denn alles Fleish es ist wie Gras" ("All Flesh is as the Grass")
The German Requiem is the first protestant "requiem." Musically, it is a journey through various keys, which is just one of the many amazing facets of this work by Brahms. It is unknown whether or not Brahms was a Christian, but it was reported by one music historian that "Brahms kept a Bible by his bed always and it was found well-used." The clip I put up is 14.5 minutes in length, but it is well worth it...listen for the development of the piece both harmonically (key structure, melodies) and in intensity--the piece just seems to grow more and more mysterious and haunting. A very worthy setting of the biblical text "all flesh will wither as the grass." The whole idea of "from dust we are and to dust we will return" is what is depicted here.
The Results of Counting NUMBERS!
So it really, really was beneficial to count numbers and mentally "turn down the volume" on what was happening on stage, and "turning up the volume" on counting measures of rests and ensuring that the entrances were in the right spot. I think that the mental discipline required to do this with everything going on around you in an opera is tremendous, and it is something I learned a lot about this past week in the opera series!
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Thoughts on counting NUMBERS!!
So my plan of attack on the counting/being aware problem is to, as Maestro Haddock puts it to us so often..."count NUMBERS!!!" I always count numbers, but I'm going to try to zone in on only doing that alone this afternoon. I'm going to turn my mental volume up on the counting numbers of rests, etc. and down on what is going on around me.
Perhaps it will help! I guess I'll find out.
Perhaps it will help! I guess I'll find out.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Opera performance #2
So the second performance of The Magic Flute was better than the first. That is good...we are improving!!
The one thing that I find it hardest to do is to concentrate. I don't know if it is because we are on the stage and things are going on above us that distracts me so much (normally we are in a sunken pit) or if it is something else...?? I've found that I usually have one slip-up per half where I am so engrossed in what is going on on stage that I forget to count and come in. Perhaps it is the fact that we are resting for a couple hundred bars and then have to play??
If anyone who reads this has experienced this, found a way to overcome it, or has any suggestions, let me know! This little problem is so annoying!
The one thing that I find it hardest to do is to concentrate. I don't know if it is because we are on the stage and things are going on above us that distracts me so much (normally we are in a sunken pit) or if it is something else...?? I've found that I usually have one slip-up per half where I am so engrossed in what is going on on stage that I forget to count and come in. Perhaps it is the fact that we are resting for a couple hundred bars and then have to play??
If anyone who reads this has experienced this, found a way to overcome it, or has any suggestions, let me know! This little problem is so annoying!
Friday, January 25, 2008
Opening night!
Tonight was the opening night of the opera. It went fairly well! The crowd was really enthusiastic about the performance. The singers did great and the orchestra played well.
If you didn't see the opera tonight, come tomorrow night or Sunday afternoon!
I'm exhausted and headin' to bed now...
If you didn't see the opera tonight, come tomorrow night or Sunday afternoon!
I'm exhausted and headin' to bed now...
Thursday, January 24, 2008
A Day of Rest!
Today we had the entire day off from opera rehearsal. I actually missed it.
But we did have an opera horn excerpt clinic with Professor Chenoweth today. It was very informative and I learned plenty. The man is very enjoyable to work with and I learned a lot.
I played excerpts from the operas Don Carlo, the Marriage of Figaro, and Cosi fan Tutte. The playing went well, and our entire OSU Horn Studio played well.
What I particularly enjoyed was the presentation by Professor Chenoweth about being an opera pit player and what life was like. It was interesting to see how different opera playing was from orchestra playing. There is a lot more that can go wrong in an opera than in an orchestra concert. In an opera you have to work with singers, cues, long waits until you play again, offstage playing, extremely bizarre and difficult transpositions, and the potential of playing in different venues and temperatures. Quite a bit of variables to deal with.
Symphonic playing is more stable. You almost always play indoors, the repertoire is widely known, you only have the musicians and the maestro to deal with, and a shorter concert length. When you truly stack it up, the skills and patience required for opera is a much greater than the skills and patience required for symphonic playing.
Overall, today I learned much about a side of the horn which seemed very obscure and mysterious. Perhaps one day I will be able to play with a professional opera company as a sub!?!
By the way, tomorrow night starts our three-night run of Mozart's The Magic Flute!!
But we did have an opera horn excerpt clinic with Professor Chenoweth today. It was very informative and I learned plenty. The man is very enjoyable to work with and I learned a lot.
I played excerpts from the operas Don Carlo, the Marriage of Figaro, and Cosi fan Tutte. The playing went well, and our entire OSU Horn Studio played well.
What I particularly enjoyed was the presentation by Professor Chenoweth about being an opera pit player and what life was like. It was interesting to see how different opera playing was from orchestra playing. There is a lot more that can go wrong in an opera than in an orchestra concert. In an opera you have to work with singers, cues, long waits until you play again, offstage playing, extremely bizarre and difficult transpositions, and the potential of playing in different venues and temperatures. Quite a bit of variables to deal with.
Symphonic playing is more stable. You almost always play indoors, the repertoire is widely known, you only have the musicians and the maestro to deal with, and a shorter concert length. When you truly stack it up, the skills and patience required for opera is a much greater than the skills and patience required for symphonic playing.
Overall, today I learned much about a side of the horn which seemed very obscure and mysterious. Perhaps one day I will be able to play with a professional opera company as a sub!?!
By the way, tomorrow night starts our three-night run of Mozart's The Magic Flute!!
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
So what? Part 2 - My belief in the arts
Now to answer some of the questions that I posed three days ago.
First off, I truly believe that the arts are necessary. To not have the arts is to lose all creativity and hope for true progress in a society. I believe that it is art that draws the best out of humanity and teaches us to explore ourselves and our feelings in ways that normal situations of life don't allow.
I believe that the arts can be considered as any method or means of expressing ones self to others. I realize that art is subjective, but even what some consider complete junk is pure art to others, and vice versa. So...music, speech, sculpting, painting, ballet, writing, etc. is all means of expressing ones self. Each form is unique, and all are different, but each access in us an area of ourselves with which we find solace, inspiration, joy, rage, love, and so on and so on.
Now how should I expect others to respond to the arts? I believe that each person has an "art" of some sort that they appreciate and support. It is finding larger cross-sections of society which support the same art that is problematic. Our society is so diversified that it is harder to find people who identify with and are willing to fully embrace a particular genre. Someone may love paintings, writing, and music. Can they wholeheartedly support all three? Probably not. When it comes down to it, most people have one great love and only one.
After some really deep and introspective thought, I think that I am a musician because it is such a core of who I am, that I could never NOT play music. I sat down and thought about what I am involved in and why it is noteworthy and should receive my involvement. As I narrowed the list down, most everything could be traced back to music in some fashion. I do believe at times that we all do what we do because it's what we do. We mindlessly trudge through our daily duties, but never stop to think of why we do what we do.
As I sat and thought about it, I realized what a privilege I have each day to pick up a musical instrument and expressively create music. What a privilege. Many people do not have the ability to perfect playing of an instrument, and the world would be completely unbalanced if everyone did. But everyone has an art or talent through which they express themselves.
After coming to this realization, I look at people differently. I now see how each person I know and meet each day has a niche in which they display their talent and creativity.
But, SO WHAT?
I challenge everyone who reads this to be AWARE of the art that is around them each day and to not take it for granted. Look at the beauty of nature. Look at the people around you and how they creatively communicate with others via art genres. The world is a better place because of the "art" in it. Don't let a day go by without observing and actively appreciating it all!!
First off, I truly believe that the arts are necessary. To not have the arts is to lose all creativity and hope for true progress in a society. I believe that it is art that draws the best out of humanity and teaches us to explore ourselves and our feelings in ways that normal situations of life don't allow.
I believe that the arts can be considered as any method or means of expressing ones self to others. I realize that art is subjective, but even what some consider complete junk is pure art to others, and vice versa. So...music, speech, sculpting, painting, ballet, writing, etc. is all means of expressing ones self. Each form is unique, and all are different, but each access in us an area of ourselves with which we find solace, inspiration, joy, rage, love, and so on and so on.
Now how should I expect others to respond to the arts? I believe that each person has an "art" of some sort that they appreciate and support. It is finding larger cross-sections of society which support the same art that is problematic. Our society is so diversified that it is harder to find people who identify with and are willing to fully embrace a particular genre. Someone may love paintings, writing, and music. Can they wholeheartedly support all three? Probably not. When it comes down to it, most people have one great love and only one.
After some really deep and introspective thought, I think that I am a musician because it is such a core of who I am, that I could never NOT play music. I sat down and thought about what I am involved in and why it is noteworthy and should receive my involvement. As I narrowed the list down, most everything could be traced back to music in some fashion. I do believe at times that we all do what we do because it's what we do. We mindlessly trudge through our daily duties, but never stop to think of why we do what we do.
As I sat and thought about it, I realized what a privilege I have each day to pick up a musical instrument and expressively create music. What a privilege. Many people do not have the ability to perfect playing of an instrument, and the world would be completely unbalanced if everyone did. But everyone has an art or talent through which they express themselves.
After coming to this realization, I look at people differently. I now see how each person I know and meet each day has a niche in which they display their talent and creativity.
But, SO WHAT?
I challenge everyone who reads this to be AWARE of the art that is around them each day and to not take it for granted. Look at the beauty of nature. Look at the people around you and how they creatively communicate with others via art genres. The world is a better place because of the "art" in it. Don't let a day go by without observing and actively appreciating it all!!
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Opera Rehearsal observations
So I'm writing after a LOOOOOOONG opera rehearsal. The rehearsals are from 7-11p every night this week. Long hours, but it will be worth it!
The opera is falling into place. I am learning much about playing accurately in these rehearsals. I get one chance to hit every note just the way it should be. If you frack (the technical term for missing a note!) it, you don't get a second chance. I know this and try to practice it always, but in this setting it is strictly enforced and is a good experience. Also, as an ensemble, if we don't play something exactly as we wished, then we DO NOT get to rehearse it. We get "the look" from the conductor, and, if you're wise, you pencil in a note that will help you to not do it again!
The opera is being sung in English and not the original language. Not too sure how I feel about that. There is a beauty of the original language in union with the music, but I suppose that the benefit of the audience being able to understand it without supertitles is outweighs the beauty.
I am still pondering the "deep, touch-feeling" questions. More on my thoughts later. For now, it is off to bed. I have a lesson tomorrow, lots of classes, and another 4 hour rehearsal tomorrow night!
The opera is falling into place. I am learning much about playing accurately in these rehearsals. I get one chance to hit every note just the way it should be. If you frack (the technical term for missing a note!) it, you don't get a second chance. I know this and try to practice it always, but in this setting it is strictly enforced and is a good experience. Also, as an ensemble, if we don't play something exactly as we wished, then we DO NOT get to rehearse it. We get "the look" from the conductor, and, if you're wise, you pencil in a note that will help you to not do it again!
The opera is being sung in English and not the original language. Not too sure how I feel about that. There is a beauty of the original language in union with the music, but I suppose that the benefit of the audience being able to understand it without supertitles is outweighs the beauty.
I am still pondering the "deep, touch-feeling" questions. More on my thoughts later. For now, it is off to bed. I have a lesson tomorrow, lots of classes, and another 4 hour rehearsal tomorrow night!
Monday, January 21, 2008
Mozart's 'The Magic Flute' this weekend at OSU!
This coming weekend, the OSU Opera Department under the direction of Peter Kozma and the OSU Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Maestro Marshall Haddock will present the opera The Magic Flute (sung in English) in Thurber Theatre at the Drake Union.
Concerts will be Friday and Saturday at 8p and Sunday @ 3p.
Ticket cost for these performance are:
$20 reserved seating
$15 OSU faculty, staff and Alumni Association members
$12 seniors and students with ID
To purchase tickets, call the Theatre Box Office @ 614.292.2295
Hope you all will come out to see this peformance and support our local arts!
Concerts will be Friday and Saturday at 8p and Sunday @ 3p.
Ticket cost for these performance are:
$20 reserved seating
$15 OSU faculty, staff and Alumni Association members
$12 seniors and students with ID
To purchase tickets, call the Theatre Box Office @ 614.292.2295
Hope you all will come out to see this peformance and support our local arts!
Sunday, January 20, 2008
So what?
I've been thinking a lot about the importance of the arts recently. How essential do I personally believe them to be? What do I believe are the essential arts--music? painting? ballet? writing? sculpting? How do I personally support the arts in a substantive way? What are my expectations of the arts? What should I expect others answers to these questions to be? I consider myself a musican, but am I a musician just because that is what I do?
These questions have been mulling in my mind recently and I'm beginning to form some kind of idea about how I feel about each of these questions. It isn't something where I can sit down and decide upon in a matter of a few hours--or maybe even days!! I think it will take some time and sorting out before I come to any point in which I can express myself on these issues.
For those reading this, these questions seem rather flowery and touchy-feely, but they are questions that each of us should take some time to reflect about. The answers which you form will tell you a lot about yourself and who you are.
These questions have been mulling in my mind recently and I'm beginning to form some kind of idea about how I feel about each of these questions. It isn't something where I can sit down and decide upon in a matter of a few hours--or maybe even days!! I think it will take some time and sorting out before I come to any point in which I can express myself on these issues.
For those reading this, these questions seem rather flowery and touchy-feely, but they are questions that each of us should take some time to reflect about. The answers which you form will tell you a lot about yourself and who you are.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
CSO Concert was inspiring!
Tonight's performance was inspiring! Simply amazing performance. The CSO proved to all in attendance what they do best and how much they are needed.
The Fantasian on a Theme by Thomas Tallis was so moving to me personally. The way in which Maestro Hirokami shaped the piece and phrased it was phenomenal.
Korngold was played by Concertmaster Wetherbee with finesse and great virtuosity. It was great to hear a newer piece which many have previously not heard. It was truly appreciated by the audience.
Beethoven 7 was crafted perfectly by orchestra and maestro alike. Each performer poured their soul into creating this evening's performance and it was evident. The crowd thundered to their feet in approval after the final chords of the orchestra. It was great to see the musicians smiling after the performance. It seemed that for a while all attention was drawn to the music and the showdown between the orchestra and the board took the backstage spot for the evening.
I was inspired and the attendance and enthusiasm of the audience was palpable. A great concert and bravo to the musicians of our Columbus Symphony Orchestra!!
The Fantasian on a Theme by Thomas Tallis was so moving to me personally. The way in which Maestro Hirokami shaped the piece and phrased it was phenomenal.
Korngold was played by Concertmaster Wetherbee with finesse and great virtuosity. It was great to hear a newer piece which many have previously not heard. It was truly appreciated by the audience.
Beethoven 7 was crafted perfectly by orchestra and maestro alike. Each performer poured their soul into creating this evening's performance and it was evident. The crowd thundered to their feet in approval after the final chords of the orchestra. It was great to see the musicians smiling after the performance. It seemed that for a while all attention was drawn to the music and the showdown between the orchestra and the board took the backstage spot for the evening.
I was inspired and the attendance and enthusiasm of the audience was palpable. A great concert and bravo to the musicians of our Columbus Symphony Orchestra!!
Columbus Symphony Concert tonight!
The Columbus Symphony is playing this weekend!
The program is:
> Vaughan Williams: Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis (previewed above!)
> Korngold: Violin Concerto
> Beethoven: Symphony No. 7
The concert is in the Ohio Theater Sat. @ 8p and Sun. @ 3p!
This is going to be a great concert for me personally because I have waited three years to hear the Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis. Two years ago I believe Cincinnati Symphony had it on the schedule to perform and then cancelled it. Last year the Cleveland Orchestra was scheduled to play it and they removed it from the schedule as well! So this is it...I get to hear it!
The program is:
> Vaughan Williams: Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis (previewed above!)
> Korngold: Violin Concerto
> Beethoven: Symphony No. 7
The concert is in the Ohio Theater Sat. @ 8p and Sun. @ 3p!
This is going to be a great concert for me personally because I have waited three years to hear the Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis. Two years ago I believe Cincinnati Symphony had it on the schedule to perform and then cancelled it. Last year the Cleveland Orchestra was scheduled to play it and they removed it from the schedule as well! So this is it...I get to hear it!
Friday, January 18, 2008
Code Blue...this is not a drill!
Please, read this article from the Columbus Dispatch!
Several days ago I wrote about the arts being on the verge of a "code blue." Today this sad truth has hit shockingly close to home. It is with great regret and sadness that I read the front-page headline of the Columbus Dispatch which read "Symphony on the brink?"
The Columbus Symphony Orchestra board has proposed that:
1. the number of full-time musicians be cut from 53 to 31
2. the number of performance weeks be trimmed from 46 to 34
3. an additional $3 million dollars be removed from the $12 million dollar annual budget
The rest of this drastic plan can be viewed at the Columbus Symphony website.
I fully support the musicians of the CSO and would like to be vocal about my support. In an attempt to make more people aware of this issue and to , I have created a Facebook group open to all users entitled "Proud Supporters of the Columbus Symphony." If you are a Facebook user and feel as strongly about this art form as I do, then please join the group to help show support for the CSO!
Also, if you do not attend concerts, then this would be a tremendous time to start and show your support for the orchestra!
Several days ago I wrote about the arts being on the verge of a "code blue." Today this sad truth has hit shockingly close to home. It is with great regret and sadness that I read the front-page headline of the Columbus Dispatch which read "Symphony on the brink?"
The Columbus Symphony Orchestra board has proposed that:
1. the number of full-time musicians be cut from 53 to 31
2. the number of performance weeks be trimmed from 46 to 34
3. an additional $3 million dollars be removed from the $12 million dollar annual budget
The rest of this drastic plan can be viewed at the Columbus Symphony website.
I fully support the musicians of the CSO and would like to be vocal about my support. In an attempt to make more people aware of this issue and to , I have created a Facebook group open to all users entitled "Proud Supporters of the Columbus Symphony." If you are a Facebook user and feel as strongly about this art form as I do, then please join the group to help show support for the CSO!
Also, if you do not attend concerts, then this would be a tremendous time to start and show your support for the orchestra!
Project Playlist
The music is HERE!!!
Many thanks to Project Playlist for helping me share with you some music which I enjoy.
Hope you find this useful and enjoy listening!
Many thanks to Project Playlist for helping me share with you some music which I enjoy.
Hope you find this useful and enjoy listening!
Thursday, January 17, 2008
One of my favortie Tenors (and no, he's not Irish!)
One of my favorite tenors is Andrea Bocelli. He is from Italy (Tuscany, to be precise). He creates a unique blend of traditional classical opera and newer pop songs. He is what musicians call a "crossover" artist because he mixes these two realms of musical performance (with great success in my opinion).
He has many recordings for sale. He has recordings, such as Viaggio Italiano, Aria: The Opera Album, and Verdi which are straight classical opera favorites. He greatly excels at beautifully singing opera arias. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the term "aria," it originates from the Italian language and literally means "air." An aria is a piece of music in which there is a solo opera singer with orchestra accompaniment. Aria's tend to be slower pieces in which there are gorgeous melodies (usually expressing intense feelings of love, desire, or anguish).
His pop recording include Romanza (by far his most popular album), Amore, Andrea, Sentimento, and Sogno. His pop vocals do not include any rap, hip-hop, or any other extremely trendy styles. It is a nice variety when compared with his other classical-only cd's.
I appreciate his voice because it is very pure and clear. The resonance and focus of the tone is striking and unlike any other I have ever heard. I also appreciate the fluid-like ease with which he sings. Many other tenors sound labored and strained when they sing such works as Nessun Dorma or most works by Verdi. These demanding pieces are easily conquered by Mr. Bocelli.
Look for musical samples coming soon to my blog!
He has many recordings for sale. He has recordings, such as Viaggio Italiano, Aria: The Opera Album, and Verdi which are straight classical opera favorites. He greatly excels at beautifully singing opera arias. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the term "aria," it originates from the Italian language and literally means "air." An aria is a piece of music in which there is a solo opera singer with orchestra accompaniment. Aria's tend to be slower pieces in which there are gorgeous melodies (usually expressing intense feelings of love, desire, or anguish).
His pop recording include Romanza (by far his most popular album), Amore, Andrea, Sentimento, and Sogno. His pop vocals do not include any rap, hip-hop, or any other extremely trendy styles. It is a nice variety when compared with his other classical-only cd's.
I appreciate his voice because it is very pure and clear. The resonance and focus of the tone is striking and unlike any other I have ever heard. I also appreciate the fluid-like ease with which he sings. Many other tenors sound labored and strained when they sing such works as Nessun Dorma or most works by Verdi. These demanding pieces are easily conquered by Mr. Bocelli.
Look for musical samples coming soon to my blog!
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
The 3rd and Final Component!
The final component of my portable audio system if probably an obvious guess....the headphones!!
My choice of medium-level audiophile headphones are made by the Sennheiser Corporation. The Sennheiser HD 555's are an incredible set of award-winning headphones. I own this pair and they are incredible. They are "open." This means that there is no solid plastic cup encasing all of the sound into your ears. This adds the sense of openness and the feeling of being in a "live hall." Miraculously sublime.
So, in conclusion, the ideal portable audio system, in my opinion contains:
~ A Toshiba Gigabeat or similar device
~ A HeadRoom TotalBitHead mobile headphone amp
~ Sennheiser HD 555 mid-level, audiophile headphones
Any comments?? Do you have a different system?? Send any feedback this way!!
My choice of medium-level audiophile headphones are made by the Sennheiser Corporation. The Sennheiser HD 555's are an incredible set of award-winning headphones. I own this pair and they are incredible. They are "open." This means that there is no solid plastic cup encasing all of the sound into your ears. This adds the sense of openness and the feeling of being in a "live hall." Miraculously sublime.
So, in conclusion, the ideal portable audio system, in my opinion contains:
~ A Toshiba Gigabeat or similar device
~ A HeadRoom TotalBitHead mobile headphone amp
~ Sennheiser HD 555 mid-level, audiophile headphones
Any comments?? Do you have a different system?? Send any feedback this way!!
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Component 2!
I'm back! I've overhauled the computer and am now running Vista! It has been a pleasant switch and it works great (so far...)!
As promised, the second component in my three-part sound essentials!
Most people would be content to just plug in a pair of headphones and crank up the volume. But they would be hearing about 66% of what is actually there. To focus the sound and make it EXTREMELY good, I use a HeadRoom Total BitHead.
Let's imagine that you are at an eye doctor's office. We have all had the experience of "better one? better two?" And then the doctor dials in the exact prescription and in one moment, everything is so bright and clear! The same experience happens when you plug your headphones into the BitHead.
The BitHead simply refines and increases the power of the signal leaving the iPod device. It is a high-end super amp. It powers the headphones much better than the mini-amp inside the iPod device.
This particular model costs a hefty sum, but it is WELL WORTH the price. Just try it and I guarantee you will smile with delight!
As promised, the second component in my three-part sound essentials!
Most people would be content to just plug in a pair of headphones and crank up the volume. But they would be hearing about 66% of what is actually there. To focus the sound and make it EXTREMELY good, I use a HeadRoom Total BitHead.
Let's imagine that you are at an eye doctor's office. We have all had the experience of "better one? better two?" And then the doctor dials in the exact prescription and in one moment, everything is so bright and clear! The same experience happens when you plug your headphones into the BitHead.
The BitHead simply refines and increases the power of the signal leaving the iPod device. It is a high-end super amp. It powers the headphones much better than the mini-amp inside the iPod device.
This particular model costs a hefty sum, but it is WELL WORTH the price. Just try it and I guarantee you will smile with delight!
Sunday, January 13, 2008
My iPod...well, sorta...
There have been several people who have recently asked me what I use for my choice of portable sound devices. I use a three-component system. The first component is a Toshiba Gigabeat. It sports a 30 GB capacity and is a shade smaller than the traditional Apple Ipod (see photos at the link above).
The awesome little screen is a 2.4" LCD screen which plays movies (including widescreen format) and displays photos with brilliance. I did load the movie Ice Age and some NCIS tv episodes on it and they left room to spare. Each episode of NCIS compressed to about 50 MB each. Ice Age was only 156 MB. With size compression like that, you could fit a whole lot of footage on one of these little devices!
A neat feature which Toshiba packaged in this little device was the ability to direct-connect to any digital camera (cable included). You can dump photos directly on it from your camera (in case your memory card is maxed-out). Pictures can be made into a slideshow with music at the touch of a button. Handy.
In spite of all of these tech-savvy features, the music features impress me most. Up front I must admit that I am a complete audiophile. Along with being persnickety about the quality of sound, I also am a fan of Windows Media Player 11. The Gigabeat synchs seamlessly with WMP and fully supports .wma file format and CD quality audio. The player pulls all of the album art off of WMP as well, if you are a fan of looking at album art while you listen to music. This was enough to sell me on it. After ordering it, I was worried that the amp wouldn't be able to drive my high-end headphones (more to come on those in the future). When I plugged in the cans, they sounded awesome without an amp! I am hooked on it.
Only con: battery life. It last about 2.5 hours playing a movie (Ice Age and one ~40 minute tv episode). On music, it lasts about 12 hours. I don't travel super long distances, so I have to recharge about once a week. It really isn't a con for me at all. I'm just passing along what CNet and other reviewers have said.
I almost forgot to mention...this player is not as available as it used to be, but it is still much, much cheaper than other comparable players. It costs on average $150-175!
All in all, the Toshiba Gigabeat is the way to go if you are looking for a great .mp3 player!!
Saturday, January 12, 2008
A Technological Aside
I enjoy using and exploring technology as a hobby, and I just got Windows Vista. I am preparing to put it on my computer and it took me 38 minutes just to open the package! I had to actually Google "how to open windows vista box packaging" just to find out how to open the package. Microsoft has actually had to create a special help page just on how to open the new packaging to access the install disks!
For those of you who don't know, Windows "re-designed" their packaging for all versions of Office 2007 and Vista onward. Their intent was to be "user-friendly" but it sure as smoke isn't! The new package is completely plastic and pops open on the side. Wow, a cool design, but there is absolutely NO INSTRUCTIONS on how to open it on the outside. A hugely overlooked flaw. If anyone reading this is looking for help, you can find it here.
Other disadvantages of switching to hard plastic cases and not cardboard boxes is that the new plastic is not very environmentally friendly. Apparently Microsoft likes the new packaging because it will "protect your software for a lifetime." Well, at the rate with which Windows requires users to upgrade their OS (operating system), there is no need to protect it for a lifetime--unless Microsoft defines a "lifetime" as 3 or 4 years.
I'm a Microsoft fan and not usually this grumpy, but this is just plain retarded to not be able to open the box to use a new product. Many users have resorted to hammers and such, and this is unacceptable.
I close with this from one user on a Windows forum: "Windows Vista - now available on VHS!"
For those of you who don't know, Windows "re-designed" their packaging for all versions of Office 2007 and Vista onward. Their intent was to be "user-friendly" but it sure as smoke isn't! The new package is completely plastic and pops open on the side. Wow, a cool design, but there is absolutely NO INSTRUCTIONS on how to open it on the outside. A hugely overlooked flaw. If anyone reading this is looking for help, you can find it here.
Other disadvantages of switching to hard plastic cases and not cardboard boxes is that the new plastic is not very environmentally friendly. Apparently Microsoft likes the new packaging because it will "protect your software for a lifetime." Well, at the rate with which Windows requires users to upgrade their OS (operating system), there is no need to protect it for a lifetime--unless Microsoft defines a "lifetime" as 3 or 4 years.
I'm a Microsoft fan and not usually this grumpy, but this is just plain retarded to not be able to open the box to use a new product. Many users have resorted to hammers and such, and this is unacceptable.
I close with this from one user on a Windows forum: "Windows Vista - now available on VHS!"
Columbus Symphony Orchestra concert review (1/11)
Last evening I attended the Columbus Symphony Orchestra concert at which they played:
> Mendelssohn: Overture to A Midsummer’s Night Dream
> Hindemith: Symphonic Metamorphosis on Themes by Weber
> Brahms: Violin Concerto (played by Kyoko Takezawa)
The Mendelssohn was decent. There were some parts which were a little mis-coordinated in the strings, but overall it was a good rendering of the Overture.
The Hindemith was an absolute pleasure to hear. It was apparent that the orchestra loved to play this piece because it sounded so clean and together. Intonation (the instruments being in tune with each other) was also very succinct and clean. The final triumphant movement was very rousing and played well by the thunderous brass!
The Brahms Violin Concerto was played exquisitely well by Miss Takezawa. The orchestra kept their dynamics (volume level) at a nice level so that the soloist could shine. Her passion flowed through the music and it was very moving. In the second movement there was some trouble in the winds with tuning and missed notes, but they recovered and moved on. The final movement was brilliant and was an excellent way to end the evening.
Overall, I was inspired. The Columbus Symphony always steps up to the occasion to make great music. Maestro Junichi Hirokami also energetically leads them all well.
There is still tonight to hear this awesome concert!
> Mendelssohn: Overture to A Midsummer’s Night Dream
> Hindemith: Symphonic Metamorphosis on Themes by Weber
> Brahms: Violin Concerto (played by Kyoko Takezawa)
The Mendelssohn was decent. There were some parts which were a little mis-coordinated in the strings, but overall it was a good rendering of the Overture.
The Hindemith was an absolute pleasure to hear. It was apparent that the orchestra loved to play this piece because it sounded so clean and together. Intonation (the instruments being in tune with each other) was also very succinct and clean. The final triumphant movement was very rousing and played well by the thunderous brass!
The Brahms Violin Concerto was played exquisitely well by Miss Takezawa. The orchestra kept their dynamics (volume level) at a nice level so that the soloist could shine. Her passion flowed through the music and it was very moving. In the second movement there was some trouble in the winds with tuning and missed notes, but they recovered and moved on. The final movement was brilliant and was an excellent way to end the evening.
Overall, I was inspired. The Columbus Symphony always steps up to the occasion to make great music. Maestro Junichi Hirokami also energetically leads them all well.
There is still tonight to hear this awesome concert!
Friday, January 11, 2008
"Classical" music...on the verge of Code Blue?
I came across an article in which the author stated that Classical music was about to be an obsolete thing. I myself am a "classical" musician, so this article caught my attention. Whenever I think of a "classical" music blog, I visualize a blog which eventually begins to rant about how this genre of art is about to die and become as extinct as the dinosaurs. When I created this blog I knew that I wanted to avoid this topic. But after some thought, I think it is something that I might as well just take on right up front.
So what do I think about the situation? I attend concerts of professional orchestras on a weekly basis. Sometimes I even play in those concerts. While at performances, I can't help but notice that 75% of the audience is over the age of 50. I agree that the art form we call "classical" music is declining. But I, as a musician, have hope that it will improve.
I would like to cite an example. Let's take a look at the stock market. This is something that is constantly covered on news broadcasts. I make no claim to be a market analyst, but I do know that the market usually surges, then corrects itself, then inflates again, then corrects itself, etc. I like to think that classical music is in a "recession" at this point. Eventually it will come back again on an upswing. As a performer, I include myself when I say that it is time that we truly inspire those who hear us play. A person truly inspired will see the need for music, and want to share it with others. In essence, what I am advocating is peformers making a local difference by inspring their audiences.
Also, if you currently do not involve classical music in your daily arts diet, why not take the chance to try something new? A lesson that education teaches us is to have an open mind to trying new things. Admittedly, classical music is an acquired taste, but if you give it a chance, I'm sure that you won't be disappointed!
So...how could you begin to expose yourself to classical music?
* Your local library has a host of music on reserve. Check some out and enjoy it at your own leisure!
* But even better yet, go to an orchestra concert near you!!! Most orchestras have student tickets available for on average a cost of roughly $5- $10. For that price, you can't go wrong as a student!
* Many orchestras have personnel lists in their programs. Contact somewone who plays an instrument that you are interested in. Many of them will be more than happy to share their knowledge with you and can recommend pieces for you to explore.
In conclusion, I want to encourage you to try something new! You won't know what you've been missing until you try it out!
Please feel free to post to this topic about what you think. Also, please let me know if you have done what I have recommended! Tell me what did and didn't work!
So what do I think about the situation? I attend concerts of professional orchestras on a weekly basis. Sometimes I even play in those concerts. While at performances, I can't help but notice that 75% of the audience is over the age of 50. I agree that the art form we call "classical" music is declining. But I, as a musician, have hope that it will improve.
I would like to cite an example. Let's take a look at the stock market. This is something that is constantly covered on news broadcasts. I make no claim to be a market analyst, but I do know that the market usually surges, then corrects itself, then inflates again, then corrects itself, etc. I like to think that classical music is in a "recession" at this point. Eventually it will come back again on an upswing. As a performer, I include myself when I say that it is time that we truly inspire those who hear us play. A person truly inspired will see the need for music, and want to share it with others. In essence, what I am advocating is peformers making a local difference by inspring their audiences.
Also, if you currently do not involve classical music in your daily arts diet, why not take the chance to try something new? A lesson that education teaches us is to have an open mind to trying new things. Admittedly, classical music is an acquired taste, but if you give it a chance, I'm sure that you won't be disappointed!
So...how could you begin to expose yourself to classical music?
* Your local library has a host of music on reserve. Check some out and enjoy it at your own leisure!
* But even better yet, go to an orchestra concert near you!!! Most orchestras have student tickets available for on average a cost of roughly $5- $10. For that price, you can't go wrong as a student!
* Many orchestras have personnel lists in their programs. Contact somewone who plays an instrument that you are interested in. Many of them will be more than happy to share their knowledge with you and can recommend pieces for you to explore.
In conclusion, I want to encourage you to try something new! You won't know what you've been missing until you try it out!
Please feel free to post to this topic about what you think. Also, please let me know if you have done what I have recommended! Tell me what did and didn't work!
Thursday, January 10, 2008
upcoming concerts in columbus this weekend
I'm posting to let people know about a few upcoming concerts in the Columbus area this weekend.
First, there is a Columbus Symphony concert this weekend. There are performances on Friday (1/11) and Saturday (1/12) at 8p in the Ohio Theater. Tickets can be purchased online and student discount tickets are available. The program includes:
> Mendelssohn: Overture to A Midsummer’s Night Dream
> Hindemith: Symphonic Metamorphosis on Themes by Weber
> Brahms: Violin Concerto (played by Kyoko Takezawa)
Second, there is a ProMusica Chamber Orchestra concert on Saturday (1/12) at 5:30p and Sunday (1/13) at 7:30p in the Southern Theater. This program includes:
Johann Strauss, II: Radetsky March
Handel: Entrance of the Queen of Sheba from Solomon
Ravel: Pavane for a Dead Princess
Haydn: Symphony No. 48 “Maria Theresa”
Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 5 “Emperor”
Lastly, on Saturday evening at 6p, The Ohio State University School of Music presents the Kent Brass Quintet. The concert is open to the public and is held in Hughes Hall Auditorium.
So there is the smattering of musical venues this weekend. There is going to be some great music-making in Columbus this weekend!
First, there is a Columbus Symphony concert this weekend. There are performances on Friday (1/11) and Saturday (1/12) at 8p in the Ohio Theater. Tickets can be purchased online and student discount tickets are available. The program includes:
> Mendelssohn: Overture to A Midsummer’s Night Dream
> Hindemith: Symphonic Metamorphosis on Themes by Weber
> Brahms: Violin Concerto (played by Kyoko Takezawa)
Second, there is a ProMusica Chamber Orchestra concert on Saturday (1/12) at 5:30p and Sunday (1/13) at 7:30p in the Southern Theater. This program includes:
Johann Strauss, II: Radetsky March
Handel: Entrance of the Queen of Sheba from Solomon
Ravel: Pavane for a Dead Princess
Haydn: Symphony No. 48 “Maria Theresa”
Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 5 “Emperor”
Lastly, on Saturday evening at 6p, The Ohio State University School of Music presents the Kent Brass Quintet. The concert is open to the public and is held in Hughes Hall Auditorium.
So there is the smattering of musical venues this weekend. There is going to be some great music-making in Columbus this weekend!
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Three blogs I really dig
~ A blog from WOSU radio host Christopher Purdy!
~ A blog all about French horns!
~ A fellow Classical music discussion blog!
~ A blog all about French horns!
~ A fellow Classical music discussion blog!
Monday, January 7, 2008
My initial post!
My initial post! Hooooray!!
This blog is brand new and under construction!
Content will be forthcoming as I figure out Blogger.
This blog is brand new and under construction!
Content will be forthcoming as I figure out Blogger.
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