I'm usually not this mainstream...

On the way to school this morning I heard the Ke$ha song "Blow" and it kind of made my day. The rave like rhythm just got me energized for the day and because it is a Monday I need it. After happily prancing to the band room I realize my friends had all heard the same song this morning too. We all start humming in unison and now the song is stuck in my head for the rest of the day. The radio is usually boring to me but this morning the popular pop is what got me going!

Happy Listening! =]

"Angels in the Architecture"

A couple of weeks ago I attended the Murray State 50th Annual Senior High Quad State Band Festival. Basically about 400 high school musicians from around Kentucky, Tennessee, Ohio, and Indiana join together on Murray's campus to participate in a rigorous three day rehearsal all ending with a performance on the final day. Along with hours of rehearsals participants enjoyed the finest music ensembles Murray has to offer. On the second night I experienced one of the most amazing pieces of music I have ever heard. The MSU Wind Ensemble, the most select group, performed the song "Angels in the Architecture" by Frank Ticheli. Words can't begin to describe the hush that fell over the crowd and the ambiance in the auditorium. Hundreds of ears were alert as everyone listened to the dulcet sounds at the beginning of the song turn into chaos at the climax. As the music faded the crowd was silent waiting for someone to be the brave soul to applaud first. One truly knows he or she has experienced something special when it is too good to clap. Try it for yourself!

Angels in the Architecture

Happy Listening =]

Percussion Ensembles

Solos and ensembles is coming up next month from all those band kids out there. For those of you who don't know, solos and ensembles is an annual event hosted in every district where middle and high school students perform for rankings. This year I am doing three or four ensembles. Along with my usual woodwind ensemble I am trying something new this year: Percussion Ensembles. What is so great about percussion ensembles is the vast diversity in music choices. Some of the pieces our percussion group will be performing this year are:

"Me Tarzan" This is a very unique ensemble using only hands, feet, chest, and stomach as instruments. The parts to the song are named after characters such as Jane and Tarzan.

"Glitzville!" This song is very catchy and fun. It has some 20s inspiration for an up-beat musical experience.

"Padapan" Do you know of the movie Slumdog Millionaire? Well, this song comes from that movie and the Indian culture. This song is a Christmas tune and is very memorable.

All of these great ensembles and many more can be found on
http://www.rowloff.com/
and
http://www.tapspace.com/

Happy Listening =]

Make Music that Matters

If you watched the Grammy's a couple of weeks ago you may have seen a litte band perform called, "Mumford and Sons." This london power quartet is on the rise in main-stream music and a group you should know. Mumford and Sons presents a old-fashioned sound fueled by romantisism. This band came together through pure talent and will continue to develop. Check em out!
http://www.mumfordandsons.com/

Happy Listening! =]