Monday, April 27, 2009

Bassoon Wizard of Oz






I wasn't aware that it was humanly possible to dance and play the bassoon at the same time!

Thursday, April 23, 2009

The Art of Improvisation





This documentary features Keith Jarrett, piano virtuoso, and the influence of classical music on his life as a pianist. One of the poignancies he mentions that strikes a chord (or two or three) with me is that you have to be out of your mind...in another place mentally to play the music and play it well.

Monday, April 20, 2009

Chant Notation






My church now uses chant notation during certain parts of the liturgy. It was a bit confusing for folks at first, but the congregation is finally starting to get the hang of it. Despite the popular belief that you can't teach old dogs new tricks, I have evidence to the contrary! We are broadening the horizons of the populus, enriching them with an abundance of musical knowledge.

I found a handy reference entitled "The Idiot's Guide to Square Notes" which can be found here.

Sunday, April 19, 2009

Easter Music Video -- "On My Cross"






Please enjoy this moving video performed by the Moore's Chapel Praise Team. Among the many positive attributes of this work, I especially admire the tight harmony of the vocalists, the guitar, and piano.

Friday, April 17, 2009

Tony Melendez






Tony Melendez is such an inspiration to me on many levels...as a human being, as a musician, and as a man of incredible faith. I have been a fan of his since I was little. Please enjoy.

Pink Panther






I've had this in my head all day....one of my faves to play on clarinet when I'm just messing around :)

Sunday, April 12, 2009

Easter Alleluia






Happy Easter! Please enjoy this work put together by University of Notre Dame students.

Friday, April 10, 2009

Panis Angelicus -- Bryn Terfel & The Choirboys






I played this piece on clarinet with organ accompaniment last night at my church's Holy Thursday liturgy. It truly speaks to my heart. I love the angelic innocence expressed in this particular rendition by the children. The oboe's melodic interludes haunt me. It is truly breathtaking. Please enjoy!

Thursday, April 9, 2009

Angels Playing Violin





I believe that this work by William Bougeureau (1825 – 1905) captures the very essence of music.

The Human Instrument





"The human voice can create an impressive array of sounds because it relies on non-linear feedback by which a small input can result in a disproportionately large output. One of the voice’s more effective nonlinear mechanisms is inertive reactance, whereby singers create special conditions in their vocal tract to amplify sounds generated by the vocal folds."
-Aaron Goodman

Creative Chaos





This work, "Musical Instruments" by Evaristo Baschenis (1617-1677) candidly portrays what I like to call the "creative chaos" of many a mad musician!


Canine Cantata





Bravissimo, Bowser!

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

Nature's Maddest Musician






I'm all for giving props to the folks who deserve them...this little critter takes the cake!!!


Monday, April 6, 2009

Hello Notes



In keeping with custom and just plain good manners (not that I always follow societal norms, mind) I should probably introduce myself at the very least and give a little background.

My name is Angela.

This "lovechild" is the result of 1) the need for yet another creative outlet 2) finally jumping on the bandwagon after about a year of internal conflict 3)admiration and respect for another musician and her blog 4) desire to share a part of myself with "the world" 5) hope that someone, somewhere will benefit, even if only to find amusing 6) pure passion for music.

Now that we are properly introduced and past the formalities, I am looking forward to imagination, insight, and inspiration on this blog!