Music, A Path Anyone can Travel (Synthesis Post)

 "Anyone can cook" - Ratatouille 

Ratatouille

         I absolutely love this quote because it's quote that can be applied to the music industry.  My whole entire purpose for this blog was to show that anyone no matter what age, race, or even social status can stop a person playing the piano or singing.  Will it take some time to develop a really nice technique and sound?  Of course but through hard work and your passion for music it can be achieved.  So let's take a trip through my blog timeline and light the path of the music journey.

         In my very first blog post I talk about the five habits every musician needs to succeed.  This is the foundation that makes the famous musicians in our world today extremely successful.  One thing I know our generation is good at already is the networking.  We have so many social medias apps out there that keep us connected with the world.  All you need to do now is use these social media apps for you main source of getting your name out into the world.  Another one of the habits that really really makes a musician special and prosperous is engaging their creativity.  This is where you find your own unique style that sets you apart from everyone else.  It's something that can only be found within yourself.  This one out of all of the habits takes a while to develop because it's nothing something that is easily develop let alone found.  It takes time and once you find that one aspect of yourself that will make you an individual in the music world run with it and never deviate because it will get you on the right path.  To see the rest of the habits click here.

          In the Music Code of Ethics is branched out into two big tiers: performance and music education.  Music education.  A common example is a public/private school music director. This is the most efficient way of getting the younger generation involved into music. Music directors are the biggest recruiters in the music field because they conduct about 100+ students a day. It is the first step for most musicians in the music world today. Through multiple outside-of-school ensembles, competitions, and festivals that the music directors expose their students to is how they influence them to go into music. The byproducts that comes from music education are friendships and memories that these students will cherish for the rest of their lives.   Even if the students don't go into music, the byproduct from being in the music program creates a chain reaction. When the students become parents they will try to get their kids involved in music because of the positive impact it had on their lives, and then the cycle continues so as long as music is around.  On top of that, many teachers still play their instruments whether it be for fun or another job they have on the side.  Therefore, even if you do go down the route of music education you can still have the chance to pick up an instrument and learn it and still cherish the moments of it even though you are teaching music.

         Performance of music is where professional musicians must perform at an advance level on any stage they are entertaining. This also makes performers the "poster child" of music. Without professional musicians there would be no voice for the music field, and it wouldn't be as popular if it was just something that was only taught and had no career path or glamour aspect to the field. There are many forms of music performances that are being show cased around the world today. Whether its pop, classical, jazz, Broadway, or orchestral music, music performers are just expressing what they love doing everyday for the rest of their lives. Although this isn't stated in the code of ethics but, whether education or performance, music should inspire and unite everyone because music is not only a career but a door to opportunity. Music brings loved ones together, creates escape, gives humans across the world another way to express their deep and compelling thoughts. It's something the world will always need.

         Continuing along my blog timeline I started talking about building a music resume.  Resumes are extremely important to a musician.  Musicians use them for auditions, summer music festivals, teaching, just pretty much any job you want to do as a musician you need a resume.  The resume is however different from a normal one.  It follows the same topics but the context within the topics is completely different.  For example,  education (which always goes last) talks about the college you went to and also the teacher you were taught under.  This is because there a many teachers that teach the same instrument or performing art all across the country.  The thing that differs them is their pedagogy which is their form of teaching the craft.  Also there's the glamour of coming from a famous teacher which adds some brownie points to your resume.  For about music resumes click here.

         Moving forward,  as I said in my blog post, Recognizing the Significance it shows that many successful people have had music a part of their lives.  Woody Allen played clarinet and he said it gave him an escape from his real job and the stress that comes with it.  Did he put on his resume that he is skilled at clarinet?  No he didn't because it wasn't what he studied or even made his focus throughout his life but he was still able to have it in his life and cherish every moment of it.  The co-founder of Google, Larry Page, surely didn't emphasized that playing saxophone was his secret ingredient to producing one the most successful corporations in history.  However both of them found that playing music did ENGAGE THEIR CREATIVITY to make them think outside of the box and made into the successful men they are today.  This shows even though music isn't your major pursuit, it can help you think creatively and make your main pursuit not only less stressful but potentially make it more successful.  All it takes is just sitting down picking an instrument or song and figuring out how you can make this into the most beautiful piece ever.

        My final blog post was an interview with a music student.  I made this my final post to show you another view point coming from another musician.  The final question of the interview was "what is one piece of advice you would give to a person wants to pursue music?"  They replied with that commit to it and don't the multiple classes and obligations deter you from doing something you love.  I finished with this question because if you are thinking of having music as a major or even minor or just taking a music do it honestly you never know until you try.  Who knows you may find some insightful aspects to yourself along the way when you are taking a stroll along the music pathway.

Follow the Road

         Although I left many blog posts out of the picture I just wanted to touch on a few key posts that show you the purpose of the blog.  My whole entire purpose for this blog was to show people that anyone can do music.  It does not matter your level of experience you really have the desire to do it you can do it.  The pathway has no gate or requires to enter it.  It is universal and vast and a whole world to explore.  So I hope I did inspire, educate, and if anything give you insight on what the world of music is about.  I given you most of the tools you need now it's up to you to take that first step on the musical journey whether its for your career or fun.

       

An Interview with a Music Student

      I interviewed one of the Michigan State's music majors so people know what it's like to be an music major.  This person is a vocal education major.


1.)  What classes do you take strictly for vocal?
Answer: The classes I take for vocal are Dictation which for vocal majors is when we learn how to properly sing in different dialects such as Italian, German, and French.  State Singers which is the choir ensemble I am currently enrolled in.  This isn't technically a class but we have recital which is when all of the vocal studios come together and perform and have master classes.

2.) How often do you practice singing?
Answer:  I usually practice an hour everyday but since my instrument is my voice I have to be careful and not strain it so some days I do not do the full hour

3.) What made you want to be come an Education Major?
Answer: I always wanted to teach since I was young.  I love helping kids reach their full potential. As far as music I really love music so being a Music Education Major is the right fit for me.  This is because I believe as a teacher you should be passionate about the subject that you are teaching so its convincing to kids and they get the message of what you're trying to teach way more clear and enjoyable.

4.) What age groups would you teach and why?
Answer: I would love to teach all age groups but for different purposes.  If I were to teach elementary I would teach general music.  Middle School I am not sure because of the music curriculum in Michigan compared to my state Pennsylvania are different but I would teach band.  In High School I would teach music theory and band


5.) What one piece of advice would you give to someone who wants to major in music?
Answer: Commit to it and do not let the obligation in the school of music deter you from something that you love.

Prompt Post #10: Recognizing the Truth

Link to Picture

         The article I read was about how being in music is almost impossible with the technological changes coming about. However I think this is an invalid conclusion. The author sees music as being a performer and yes performers have it hard because they are the ones representing how successful and setting the trends of the music world however there are many other jobs and positions that are just as viable and successful. In general, the music world paints a black and white image where you're either an educator or a performer. Sure, there are other jobs in the music field, but they're a small fraction and most likely branch off from either education or performance. According to, "If you think the successful path to careers in music requires musical talent or working directly in the music industry, think again. Some jobs in the music industry definitely do require talent, but you can be creative about combining your love of music with your next job." (Gaffin ¶2)  The contrasts the article that misrepresents music which essentially states that the for someone to be in music you have to be strictly performance.  I don't think that's true at all.  Yes at one point of someone's life in music they will perform a solo or put on a recital but that's just one part of music that makes the music so known.  Many musicians have the ability to become composer, professors, conductors, scouts, producers, sound engineers, and even run music businesses.  Music brings loved ones together, creates escape, gives humans across the world another way to express their deep and compelling thoughts. It's something the world will always need. As what the Hans Christian Andersen says, "where words fail music speaks", music will always be there for us to fill our lives with utter satisfaction and joyous nostalgia.

Mushakt Gaffin, Norma Pauline. "10 Jobs for Music Lovers: Music Jobs & Careers | Monster.com." Monster Career Advice. Monster Worldwide, n.d. Web. 10 Apr. 2016. no date published

Prompt #6: Evaluating Resources

Music Technology

         The article I read was on the future of the music industry.  The whole idea of the article was showing the progression of the music industry has been very inconsistent  From prospering, failing, evolving, to even ending industry has been through many periods of change.  The most current season is being overrun the technological advances.  With these technological advances the music industry within all the advances a double-edge sword.  Live concerts what musicians use to live by has lost its value because many programs and websites such as Itunes and Youtube have been become a better and more efficient because its more of a convenience.  This is because both Itunes and Youtube can be accessible by laptop, phone, tablet, and even TVs.  Musicians that suffer from this evolution the most is the classical and jazz musicians because traditionally all of their performances have been in front of a live audience.  However due to technological advances these classic forms have been able to survive.  Today most concerts that aren't top 40 popular usually stream their concerts so then they are able to still get the audience and keep themselves relevant in the music industry.  Overall,  the author believes that as time keeps advancing the success of the music industry will increase as well.  I agree with the author's opinion of the future of the music industry because music will always have it's ups and downs that's fine because it's in its own world.  It can be difficult at times to be on track with the world when the world's trends change really quickly.  But music will always find a way to get back on track with the rest of the world.

         

Prompt Post #4: Consider Delivery and Style

Music Journalism Collage

         In most cases all job fields are reported by multiples sources of journalism. Whether it's professional research or for fun they evoke a powerful message that they want their audience to understand and even more agree with. I came across one article about the power of music on the brain. The tone and the overall style of the piece was very poise and professional. The article pulled from a variety of resources and quoted multiple authors therefore it's not just one voice but a variety of voices. This gives the article more credibility because of the resources it pulls from and also it makes the language of the text more universal. Overall, the piece flowed like a research paper giving it a very knowledgeable and straight forward message.
        The other article right from the beginning it gives the reader incentive to read because it's saying. "This should be the greatest time in music history" (Byrne ¶1) Unlike the other article this one has a more a gimmick phrasing than an introduction. It's saying "Hey! I huge news to tell you read me." This article major argument was about how technology has affected the music industry.  It is saying the music world is one the most competitive job fields in our society today. Classical music or any form of music that is not “Top 40” or mainstream is even more difficult to make a successful career out of. In some respects orchestras, operas, musicals, and even big band jazz ensembles are considered a dying art.  With things like technology, it's crippling the music industry making it hard for people to make a living in it.  This article was pretty vague in showing the statistics on their thesis and relationship with technology and music.  It was just a superficial article with no real substance therefore the first article is more trustworthy because of the thorough context and cited resources.

Byrne, David. "Open the Music Industry’s Black Box." The New York Times. The New York Times, 01 Aug. 2015. Web. 17 Apr. 2016.

How I balance my life in Music School

As a freshman at MSU majoring in clarinet performance it is not an easy task to accomplish. With classes such as clarinet studio, band, and even academics it can be difficult to handle. That’s why I am introducing some best practices for the new incoming freshman.  So that they will know what to expect throughout the following semester. One of the best practices includes time management, because especially being involved within a new environment and new atmosphere you will have a tendency to overwhelm yourself with activities and homework in general not including music courses. How will I even be able to handle time management? First, try to separate everything including when your classes are, lessons, when to eat and of course when to eat. It may sound easy but really it isn’t as easy as it may come out to be. No one is perfect at anything but you will have to continue to work more at time management to become better at it. An experience that I had with time management is that I keep a practice log of my clarinet studies and practicing.

Balancing Music and School 

Although goal setting is such a common practice it’s one of the most essential elements to a musician’s success and growth throughout their career.  The practice of goal is setting must be treated like an art.  The goal must be achievable, specific, time bound, and relevant.  As a clarinet performance major I would utilize this form of goal settings in my weekly practice.  For example, I would usually set a goal at the beginning of the week such as finishing a piece that I am currently working on.  My deadline is normally Sunday and it’s relevant to my career because the more repertoire I learn the faster my musical intellect will grow.  As someone who has experience in goal setting and time management I would highly recommend incoming freshman take part in these best practices. 

What Music has done for my life

        A question that I and many other people have asked themselves is “what if”. This type of question usually can’t be answered if not experienced. My “what if” question is, “what if I never started playing music where would my life be it at now?” At the conclusion of my junior year I have now answered that question. My answer is not really answer but more of an epiphany. I do not care to know what my life would be like without music. The answer to me is irrelevant because my life, my happiness is revolved around music. My musical journey started at the age of four. My mom decided to put me into piano lessons because when I was a baby I use to hum songs I would hear when I crawled around the house. This was always a signal to my mom when I was in a really good mood. This was the first stop on my musical journey and the basic building blocks of who I am today.

         Music has shaped my ability to study and perform successfully outside the band room. During my sophomore year there were mounds of terms in honors biology we had to remember in order to be successful on exams. When i studied, I would put on a classic work such as the Mozart Clarinet Concerto and through the melody I’d create lyrics for the terms. On test day, all I had to do was softly hum the melody and the answers would flow onto the paper as if I was replicating the whole concerto. This way of thinking has also made me a more advanced linguistic learner. Since freshman year, I was the “Google Translator” in my Spanish classes. From playing the clarinet and piano I have expanded my vocabulary which made learning Spanish much easier to comprehend. Music, like Spanish, is a language. If you learn to speak another language it will make you a well-rounded learner and intellectual individual. My aptitude would not be as sharp without me being so devoted to simple dots on a staff.

Favorite Quote

         Through music I have learned how friendship, confidence, and leadership will take me far in life. I learned in third grade that I had stage fright when I couldn't say my lines for the Thanksgiving play. I was able to overcome that fear by participating in many recitals and performances as I grew up. This was huge for me because with my newly found confidence I was able to nail my auditions and land a spot in the Detroit Symphony Orchestra Civic Youth Ensembles for four years. I have made many friends through music that will remain with me for the rest of my life. My best friend and I, whom I have known since elementary school, have faced much adversity. But when we play a piece of music together all of our problems die soon as the sound of our clarinets intertwine as one producing a beautiful song. Currently, I am first chair and section leader of my school band. I have learned that it takes more than being the best when it comes to leadership. It also takes teamwork and being a good listener. I always lead small ensemble groups for performance in music festivals. As leader, I place people in certain parts not because they aren’t capable of playing harder parts it’s because of how they blend with the people around them. When they are all seated properly it creates pure bliss and that's one of greatest rewards of a leader.

         I could not imagine where my life would be without music. I dream that someday I will spread my musical haven to those who are unable to experience it. My life as a musician is truly the place where I am content. It is my inspiration. My energy. My best friend. My home.

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Prompt Post #9 Recognizing Significance

Woody Allen

As I was scouring through the internet looking for an article on the importance of music I came across this NY Times article.  It's about how the music is the key to success.  Many successful people in our society were classically trained before they became famous and very wealthy people.  Examples would be Hedge Fund billionaire Bruce Kovner who took classes at Julliard as a classical pianist.  Paul Allen co-founder of Microsoft played guitar, Woody Allen was a clarinetist, Larry Page co-founder of Google played saxophone,etc.  The list goes on but all these successful people individuals it does not mean that everyone who plays music becomes just as successful as them.  However what they learned from music did help make them into the successful leaders in our world today.  From the article I learned that from music helps collaboration, ability to listen, and the power to look in the present and future at the same time.

THE ECONOMICAL PERSPECTIVE OF THE MUSIC INDUSTRY

         From the phonograph to ITunes the music industry has had a major impact on our world’s society. Everyone from all over the world enjoys and cherishes how music has positively impacted their lives. It is universal and I can honestly say I have never heard of one person who has not enjoyed the sweet and calming sounds of the music whether it's listening to Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony or jamming out to Justin Bieber. This is what makes music an affluent part of the economy. Everyone from around gets excited for when a new album comes out and will pay a generous amount of money to listen to the new songs. This is why many people today dream of becoming a musician or vocalist in order to become extremely rich for doing what they love. However this industry fluctuates due to rapid changes in trends, music piracy, and even technology that alter the supply and demand of the music industry in an economy.

          Technology has changed the the price levels of the music industry. According to the graph recode.net “at the 1999 peak of the recorded music market, 40 billion of recorded music was sold.” (Pakman ¶ 3) This was achieved through multiple sold copies of CDs and the rise of music videos. This peak of the music soon declined because of the rapid changes in technology. Music services such as Pandora, Youtube, and ITunes have increased the music supply making it more convenient for everyone around the world to enjoy music. This convenience inevitably led to the decline of the price in music to “8 billion dollars”(Pakman, See Graph). Also “a professional album is no cheap thing to make and most record labels are struggling to re-coup what they spend on creating a record. To top this the people who do buy music buy less albums people are more likely to download one single song they like rather than risking their hard earned money buying an album they might not enjoy.” (Frederick ¶ 3) However the music industry can also benefit from the advancements of technology. The media helps promote rising stars and stimulates competition between creating a variety of choices of different of music. As technology advances so do the forms of media specifically in the music industry. Forms such as Youtube, MTV, Soundcloud, and many more services stimulate competition between artists which then makes the artists create better music giving the economy more variety and essentially increasing the demand in consumption of music. Popular artists such as Justin Bieber, Beyonce, and Lady Gaga wouldn’t be as successful without advertisers exposing them to the media. Overall, technology plays a major part in the music industry today it has decreased the price levels making it easier for people to purchase the music and especially increased the popularity of artists and their albums.

         Music Piracy for a long time has crippled the economical success of the music industry. “Global music piracy robs the United States of $12.5 billion in economic output and more than 71,000 jobs annually...Sound recordings -- and other content considered to be intellectual property -- are the most important growth drivers in the U.S. economy, accounting for almost 40% of economic growth and nearly 60% of growth in U.S. exports” (K.C. Jones ¶ 1) Not only the artist themselves suffer from this dilemma but many companies that produce, advertise, and sell the music are extremely affected as well. This problem has arise due to the advancements in technology. “Mp3 technology has enabled mass theft and piracy of music in a way that has never been possible in any other point of history.” (Frederick ¶ 3) According to the statistics the United States of America is the number one nation that illegally downloads music right behind them is United Kingdom and so on. (Richter. See graph at the end) The music industry is solely dependent on copyrights. Sadly those protections aren’t enforced as necessary as it needs to be due to the fact that many people and websites all around the world steal music and share it to the world public for no cost in return.

         Genres also have a connection to the economic eminence of the music industry. From the beginning everyone from across the world has enjoyed concerts and other performances of music. It started with classical music. For a long period classical music has dominated the industry. From famous symphonies such as Dvorak’s New World Symphony to Aaron Copland’s Clarinet Concerto people pay to see it showed. Unfortunately time changes and music evolves. Even though classical music is still being performed and recorded its not a very significant part of the music industry anymore which is why its hard getting a job when in the music industry when you can only play an instrument. Moving forward in time we have pop and rap music. Pop and rap music are the driving genres of the music industry. According to ITunes the top 10 songs are primarily pop and rap. Artist like Ariana Grande, Beyonce, and Justin Bieber are currently the most successful artists of today and they are coincidentally pop and or rap artists. The concerts they perform at bring in millions increasing the demand of their albums and which then increases supply ending with an overall increase in GDP. Michael Jackson, even though he’s dead, is the king of pop his songs are still played and when he did tour he would make millions because his reputation was and still is forever praised. Therefore even when these artist die physically or fame wise this genre will never die itself it has been popular for many decades now and the music industry is extremely dependent upon its continued success.

          The music industry will forever be bittersweet factor to the growth of the economy. When it is shining and successful it definitely shows but when its in a downfall it can be pretty harmful to the economy as well. But it will never fail because everyone loves music it will always and forever be a part everyone life whether it’s through headphones or at a live concert.

Works Cited:

Billboard. "Music: Top 100 Songs | Billboard Hot 100 Chart." Billboard. Billboard, n.d. Web. 20 Mar. 2016. Its updates ever so often so information changes with the billboard status

Dargent, Loup. "The Beauty of Music: Top 5 Most Popular Music Genres." LoupDargent.info. Themexpose, n.d. Web. 20 Mar. 2016.

Frederick, Damian. "How Has Technology Affected The Music Industry?" Taliferro Music. Taliferro Music, 28 May 2014. Web. 20 Mar. 2016.

Houghton, Bruce. "Hypebot." 'hypebot' Type Pad, 27 Sept. 2010. Web. 20 Mar. 2016.

"ITunes Charts." Apple. Apple Inc., n.d. Web. 20 Mar. 2016. Changes charts over time

Jones, K. C. "Music Piracy Costs U.S. Economy $12.5 Billion, Report Reveals - InformationWeek." InformationWeek. UBM, 22 Aug. 2007. Web. 20 Mar. 2016.

Pakman, David. "The Price of Music." Recode. Vox Media, Inc., 18 Mar. 2014. Web. 20 Mar. 2016.Richter, Felix. "Infographic: United States Top Music Piracy Ranking." Statista Infographics. Statista Inc., 18 Sept. 2012. Web. 20 Mar. 2016.

The Pianist: The Life of Wladyslaw Szpilman...How music saved his life

Wladyslaw Szpilman

         Wladyslaw Szpilman is the narrator/author the book The Pianist. It is a memoir of his life during the Holocaust. He experienced multiple encounters with death and somehow survived it all. In my opinion anyone from the holocaust who has the courage to write about their experience is not a typical writer. In fact, the Holocaust itself, though the whole world knows its story, still is not common because there are multiple perceptions and story lines in that period of time. The story of Wladyslaw is a riveting tale of how music saved his life during the Holocaust. Before the Holocaust music to Wladyslaw was his job, life, and passion. When the Holocaust began music transformed into his shield against death. Wladyslaw left his legacy on the Earth by becoming a great influence in the Polish musical world and his tale inspiring readers to always find your sanctuary because when time comes it could be the only buffer between you and death.

         The story begins with Wladyslaw doing his daily routines playing piano at a radio station in the Warsaw ghetto. He mentioned the daily the smuggling going because of the food shortage within the ghetto. There was this one time a kid was trying to get food to his family and when his was trying to get through the crack in the wall a police man spotted him and started beating at his spine. Wladyslaw tried to save him but by the time he arrived the kid’s spine was demolished he died. Moving forward, the German had finally invaded Warsaw. This is the time when the Jewish men had to go out and start setting up a defense. Wladyslaw’s father and his brother, Henryk were about to set off to help the others. But in the end they all decided to stay in together in Warsaw because they would rather die together at home than die separated from one another. When the Germans established their rule on Warsaw things in the ghetto became much more difficult for Wladyslaw and his family. The Germans started hunts on the Jews where they would pick Jews off the street and beat them up for their own entertainment. Not only that every few days or so there would be announcements restricting Jews by making give up their land, most of their money, and all valuables that were near and dear to the Jews. As time moved the Germans were now commencing the utter destruction of the Jews. They would come into Jewish homes and start killing them. There was this one slaughter in particular that had me teary eyed. A Nazi told everyone in this family to stand up but this one old man couldn’t do so because of his feebleness and age. But that did not matter to the Nazi. He picked of the wheel with the old man in it and threw him out the window. Wladyslaw could hear the old man slamming on the ground. Now it was time for the Jews to “resettle” AKA sent to the concentration camps and soon die in the gas chambers. Wladyslaw and his family were sent to a camp called The Umschlagplatz. This is where the family finally separated. As Wladyslaw was walking with his family to trucks an officer pulled him aside and told him to go back to the ghetto. Wladyslaw screamed for his father but his father saw him and just smiled and waved knowing the fact that he would never see his son again. After this devastating moment there was hope. As Wladyslaw continued working as a pianist for the officers that killed Jews for a living D-Day arrived. Wladyslaw was hiding up in a building until a Nazi finally found him. Wladyslaw was ready to accept his inevitable fate until the Nazi said, “what do you do for a living?” He replied he was a pianist and told him to play. Wladyslaw played Chopin’s Nocturne in C minor. After he finished the Nazi was in awe. The Nazi kept his hiding place a secret and gave him food and supply until one day the Nazi told him he has to leave and told Wladyslaw to hang in there because the war was finally coming to an end. The war finally came to an end and Wladyslaw was rescued by the Soviet Army.

Prompt Post #7: Contemplating Controversey

         Music education has been a constant debate in school districts across the nation. Some school districts have already cut the music programs from their school. On the contrary, other school districts not only allow music education to flourish but advocate that it helps the overall learning experience of a student.

Controversey

         The schools that have cut music education do have valid reasons for cutting it. The main reason is school budget is deteriorating. All the across the nation "it’s estimated that since 2008, more than 80 percent of schools nationwide experienced cuts to their budgets." (Law Street ¶3) Since that happened schools have to make cuts and the arts is on the very top of their list. This is because its valued less than anything else. The arts in general are considered dead because of the job field is almost impossible to be successful in society today. So this can make a justification for schools to get rid of it because they want to see their students become successful people in their field of choice.

         The schools that allow music education to flourish in their schools believes that it creates an enriching learning environment. Studies show that "The research showed more clearly than ever that significantly more of the brain is used during music making than previously thought." (Education World ¶9) This is saying that music uses a significant portion of the brain than once realized. This is because when you are for example playing the piano you are engaging your brain in a multiple ways. The optical lobe of the brain is decoding the sheet music. Using the muscle memory (the hippocampus) in your fingers to play the piece. The auditory cortex (the part of the brain that processes sound) is listening to the music so to make sure its being played correctly. On top of that being overall expressive and bringing the piece to life takes a lot of thought as well. These things are all going on at the same time and it seems like how does anyone do that? It becomes quite natural and they all work together like a symphony. This can applied to core curriculum classes such math because math like music has patterns. For example in singing there's a pitch line and each pitch has a value (Do Re Mi Fa So.....). As the pitch line goes up the value goes up. Kids that learn this system have better understanding of how a number line works. This shows that music can be applied the average students life even when not in the proper setting.

Sources:



Hopkins, Gary. "Making the Case for Music Education." Education World:. Education World, INC., 1 Mar. 2009. Web. 06 Mar. 2016. <http://www.educationworld.com/a_curr/curr123.shtml>.


Metla, Valeriya. "School Art Programs: Should They Be Saved? - Law Street (TM)." Law Street (TM). Law Street Media LLC, 14 May 2015. Web. 06 Mar. 2016. <http://lawstreetmedia.com/issues/education/cutting-art-programs-schools-solution-part-problem/>.

Prompt Post #1: Asking Questions and Breaking Assumptions

Preconceptions/Stereotypes About Music:

• The type of music people listen to determines the listeners whole entire persona and lifestyle
• Classical Music and Musical Theatre is a dying form of music
• All musicians are liberal
• Musicians are considered elitists
• Asians are the gods of music
• Music Male Dominated
• Drugs are the double-edged sword to musicians
• Death is early and never a happy ending 

         Almost everything in the world has stereotypes linked to the particular subject.  I have not yet heard one subject that doesn't have a long list of stereotypes.  Music has a vast amount of preconceptions and stereotypes.  For the most part, most of the stereotypes aren't really positive ones and in fact they can come off as depressing.   Up above the preconceptions and stereotypes that are listed I got from a book I am currently reading called, "Smithsonian Music".  Its all about how music has developed and shaped the world.  This book is really effective in showing how some of the stereotypes in music are true and false and I will challenge some of these thoughts down below.

The type of music people listen to determines the listeners whole entire persona and lifestyle

For this one it's stating the within music people are still divided and the genres themselves.  For example, people who usually listen to classical music are like the introverted and geeky type of people.  People who listen to reggae are your average potheads and druggies.  Two completely different forms of music and two personas.

 Drugs are the double-edged sword to musicians

Drugs have been connected to the music world for a long period of time.  Musicians use drugs for a variety of purposes.  One is for an escape.  Musicians are considered depressed people because of the stress and anxiety they have to face daily in order to maintain their career.  So drugs such as cocaine, weed, and often times heroine would keep them "wired" and to keep their musical mind flowing with ideas.  However this was often the reasons why musicians died.  Legends like Elvis and Whitney Houston died from drug overdose. 

 All musicians are liberal 
           Musicians are considered extreme liberals.  However there are some exceptions.  In fact, the                whole entire genre of country music is considered for the most part reserved and very                          traditional.

Is Modern Music Really Modern?

        Today in society the music world is dominated by pop music and Top 40's.  The classical era of music has died off with the age of music rising.  However did the classical style of music really die off or did it just evolve?  Many pop artists in their songs still use the same instruments that Mozart and Beethoven used in their time.  Two prominent classical forms that are still used today are violin and Acapella. 

Acapella music is vocal music without instruments that are usually performed with a group and or a soloist. Forms of acapella may include for example, The Barbershop Quartet which they host a convention every year for talented acapella groups from all over the country. Throughout our decade today a very popluar acapella group called "Pentatonix" shows off their talent on tours, online and at live venues. Pure talent is shown throughout this group especially the voice ranges from the five individuals. Pentatonix takes acapella music to another level that has gone beyond the classical roots of acapella music. 

Violin is a an instrument that expresses classical music in many powerful ways. Being in an orchestra throughout my previous years has encouraged me to continue to listen to the classical purity of string instruments. Many professional violinist's mainly perform with full ensembles such as chamber, orchestra and more, but there are some violinist's who show off their talent publicly just for fun and just for their fans. One individual who performs as a soloist and collaborates with other famous artist is Lindsey Sterling. She plays with versatile, and performs like it's the first time you have ever heard a violin. Classical music is beautiful but Lindsey plays music within all genres playing with lots of flexibility outside of classical music. 

In conclusion, both of these artists are very talented and are very successful and they chose styles and forms of music that have been here for centuries.  From my blog post about being a successful musician both showcase the number one skill you need and that is "engaging your creativity".  Both used an old form a music and made it into one of the greatest hits in our society today. 

Making a Music Resume

         Resumes in general are really difficult to perfect.  These are the documents that build our reputation and are major factors of our career path.  For music majors though resumes are different.  They do not follow the normal guidelines of what is suppose to be on a resume.  Here's an example:

         This is my old music resume from my auditions to get into Music School.   It is divided into three categories Education, Achievements, and Experience. 

Experience:  The experience column in a music resume is the meaty part of the resume. As a music major I would just write down my performances that I have previously done such as participating in ensembles, solo's and or a gig. Also, for experience you may also write down the opportunities you have participated with whether it was with a famous teacher and or a group. 

Achievements: This is the reputation part of the resume.  This is where musicians put their accolades they have received throughout their lives.  Achievements can be a variety of things.  Placing at solo competitions, principle chair of orchestras,  concerts, national awards, etc.  The more you have the better off you are in the long run.

Education: I made this one last because this is what goes last in a music resume (even though I didn't put it last in my resume).  Education is primarily is the professor a musician studied under in college. Education is extremely important because its how a musician will perform the rest of their life.  The fundamentals they were taught will affect their auditions, performances, and overall musicianship.  Additionally, in orchestral auditions finalists can be determined sometimes by who taught them before the audition because the judges will know how they will continue perform based of their teachers.

Prompt Post #5: Observing Community

         At Michigan State University,  music isn't restricted to just music majors.  There are multiple ensembles that are open to everyone to join.  One group in particular is the Campus Band.  The Campus Band is a wind ensemble that is open to everyone who wants to join.  I have never been to a rehearsal of Campus Band but I did interview one of my friends in it.


1.) How often does Campus Band rehearse?

     A: "Once a week! Tuesday nights from 7:00 - 9:50pm"

2.) Is there any sort of audition that determines part or chair placement?

     A: "Nope!  All of the parts are randomly assigned to us and we switch around on parts as well."

3.) How difficult is the music?

     A: "The music isn't that difficult but it does keep my musicianship engaged and keeps me                           motivated to stay in the ensemble."

4.) Overall Impressions?

     A: "In my opinion,  I really enjoy being in campus band.  The music isn't difficult to the point
            where it distracts me from my real studies.  It is a nice escape to just keep my passion for
            music with me throughout my college career."

         From this interview and my observations I have made some conclusions about Campus Band.  Although it is not treated as seriously as the rest of the ensembles are it brings the community together.  It shows that students that aren't pursuing careers in music still harbor a passion for it.  Not matter what major they are, when it comes to music they all march to the same melody.        

Open Post About Where Words Fail Music Speaks

         When it comes to writing for me the quote, " where words fail music speaks" always comes to mind. This is quote applies to a speech I wrote down below:

        " Good afternoon students, teachers, administration, faculty, and parents and welcome to the 2015 graduation ceremony. We are here to rejoice and cherish the milestone of our graduates moving onto the real world. Our past twelve years were the confirmation of our self-worth in society. Through hard work and dedication we all proved ourselves worthy of this moment and now we are here. Today, we transform from little apprentices to our own selfmade composers. Today we create the symphonies and concertos of our new lives ahead.

         We started out our journey as apprentices and our composers were our parents and professors who helped refine our pitches with deep compassion. We wouldn’t be anything but hot-cross buns without these outstanding figures. Our remarkable parents are the reason we sit here today in this moment in time. They are our Mozart and Tchaikovsky and with gentle but structured wave of their batons, we began the journey to success as they tuned our every squeak and chord along the way. Our teachers. We first came into school with practically just our name and some knowledge of the alphabet. Despite our defiance and admiration of everything involving school you still continue to teach us. You understood the value of what is to become of us, a good song. When the last bell rang, we dashed out of class because of your relentless instruction. But because of you we had committed the scales to memory. Recognized and played every chord with zeal and perfection. Conquered advance repertoire. Mastered every standard excerpt known to man, and along the way grown into substantial intellectuals in and out of the classroom. Today I commend parents and teachers for being the underlying harmony to our future careers and success.

         Little do you remember, we all shared a musical moment together. All of us in 4th grade learned how to play the world’s best instrument, the recorder. We all got to choose what color we wanted and got a book of songs as well. At first, our attempts of playing the recorder were a sad sight to see being that we could barely get a note out without the recorder squeaking. With a little more time, patience, and a lot of practicing, we all ended up mastering the recorder and all the songs in the book. The next year some of us even went on to playing real instruments such as the flute or tuba. Others ended their journey and did not move on to play the more advance instruments. This is similar to the world and our class today. Some of us will be the famous movie stars living the big life and entertaining the public while others will be in their humble homes living the life of a suburban adult. Not all of us can be the next Whitney Houston or Mariah Carey, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But if you do get the chance like them, seize that one moment in time, make it shine.

         Do not inspire your music for the world, but let the world inspire your music for you. I do not care if you get the chance to explore something as irrelevant to your life as Wyoming take it! You only have one life to live you should at least spend some time treasuring the vast cultures that can change your life for the better. From my last two years at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp I have met many other kids just as talented as me from all parts of the world. I remember last summer one of my roommates was from Poland and he was a dance major. Although he missed his home, he was happy to say that he had the chance to visit America and see how different the lifestyle is from Poland. Later on at camp, I was interviewed and accepted to go on their tour for the Blue International Exchange Program. This is a huge opportunity for me because i get to live my dream of traveling the world playing music in different countries. Unfortunately, I declined the offer because of my very busy schedule in the summer and could not afford to leave for one month to tour. Those are the movements of my life I wish i could’ve composed in my K-12 symphony but one day the time will come to write those movements whether they are the ending or just the beginning of my new life ahead. Every part of the world has something new that you won’t find just from staying in one place. The world is your oyster and your inspiration so don’t take it for granted and go out there see what the world has to offer you.

         Unfortunately high school, like all great fermatas, must conclude. You can try to make it last but you and i both know its not possible. But with the conclusion of a masterpiece comes the arise to new ones, better ones, just as memorable as the last. These past four movements of our high school careers will be committed to memory like a favorite song with utter satisfaction and joyous nostalgia. These movements were crafted carefully by us and and refined by our teachers and parents that will be the foundation of our new symphonies. Our greatest works our yet to come. What will these works be? Where will they take place? These answers are all up you. Strive to maximum quality and spawn a song that will leave people in awe for decades to come.

         Congratulations and good luck class of 2015. May your symphonies be filled with the sweetest notes and the richest melodies."

Many people have trouble finding the words to convey what they are thinking. I strongly suggest finding the music in their heart and starting there.

         

Prompt Post #8: Practicing You Knowledge

Over the summer I was a music trainer from my hometown's summer music festival.  I trained 6th grade - 9th grade woodwinds on their music parts.  Also gave lessons to students who played clarinet as well.  This session lasted one week in the summer and there was a concert at the end of the week which I played in and setup and guided the students to their positions.  This was a very eye opening experience for me.  I have never been told what to do in this situation.  So I just use prior knowledge I have seen my band director use and applied it to the kids I taught.  It worked out really well overall but it also revealed some truths about teaching.  Technique and delivery is major key to the success of teaching middle school kids.  They won't understand if it isn't explained a certain way which made it more fun to use analogies as I was teaching them and it made my passion for teaching grow stronger as each day went on.

Broadway

         Broadway, in my opinion, is the rainbow of the musical world.  It showcases multiple performing arts: acting, art, music, singing, and writing.

    Art.  Art is what turns Broadway from a blank canvas to a rich, vivid, colorful piece of artwork.  The designers job is to make sure the audience sees the character and not the actor who plays it.  The arts aspect of Broadway is to create a veil on the audience's eyes and take them to where to story takes place.  The Theatre is there to help them audience relax and become comfortable and soon as the red velvet curtains go up they're transported into the world of the story.  No longer in the theatre.  

    Acting.  Acting gives characters in a story a distinct personality that the audience can connect with.  The actors that play these characters become one with them and find their connection with the persona they are performing as.  Acting is a highly advance skill because the actors have to master all forms of emotion.  Additionally, learn how to speak in different dialect, improvisation,  and sometimes learn to play as the opposite gender (which is called typecasting).

   

    Writing.  When I think of writing  I think the script of the whole entire play.  The people who make the script sometimes are overlooked because they aren't the ones on the stage.  However they are just as important.  The writers gives the actors humor, courage, sadness, anger, jealous, etc.  Essentially without the writers there's no plot.  The actors don't have a voice and the musicians don't have cues to come in on time.  




   

    Music/Singing. I put these two things together because one can not work without the other which makes sense.  The Pit Orchestra, which is the musicians who play the music in a dark pit, need the actor or there's no musical.  The actors need music to sing the songs and well you can't have "Musical" without music.   Together some of the greatest hits in our society today were made through Broadway and I hope one day to become a pit performer as a professional career.

Prompt Post #2: The Music Code of Ethics

         In general, the music world paints a black and white image where you're either an educator or a performer. Sure, there are other jobs in the music field, but they're a small fraction and most likely branch off from either education or performance. The code of ethics separates performance and education into two branches, and I will start off explaining education.

washingtonpost.com

         According to The Music Code of Ethics, educators must: "Contribute to music in our society by promoting teaching music in schools, colleges and universities, and by promoting a greater interest in music and the study of music." (The Music Code of Ethics ¶2). This code can be implemented in multiple ways. A common example is a public/private school music director. This is the most efficient way of getting the younger generation involved into music. Music directors are the biggest recruiters in the music field because they conduct about 100+ students a day. It is the first step for most musicians in the music world today. Through multiple outside-of-school ensembles, competitions, and festivals that the music directors expose their students to is how they influence them to go into music. The byproducts that comes from music education are friendships and memories that these students will cherish for the rest of their lives. I know this is a true fact because I was highly involved in my schools instrumental program, and I can not even begin to count the memories and bonds I've created along the way. I could not imagine where my life would be if I didn't play in band, and I am certain that I wouldn't be the musician I am without it. Even if the students don't go into music, the byproduct from being in the music program creates a chain reaction. When the students become parents they will try to get their kids involved in music because of the positive impact it had on their lives, and then the cycle continues so as long as music is around.

http://sd64.bc.ca/2013/01/15/january-music-performance-at-artspring/

         The Music Code of Ethics for performance states: "Professional musicians contribute through their performance of music to the public in promoting the enjoyment and understanding of music. This Code is principally concerned with this role, though professional musicians also contribute by providing music for weddings, funerals, and religious ceremonies."  (The Music Code of Ethics ¶3) This means that professional musicians must perform at an advance level on any stage they are entertaining. This also makes performers the "poster child" of music. Without professional musicians there would be no voice for the music field, and it wouldn't be as popular if it was just something that was only taught and had no career path or glamour aspect to the field. There are many forms of music performances that are being show cased around the world today. Whether its pop, classical, jazz, Broadway, or orchestral music, music performers are just expressing what they love doing everyday for the rest of their lives.

         I separated the two categories purposely because, in the code of ethics, education and performance are separate from another. In fact, it even gives reasons why the two shouldn't be merged because of the multiple interference complications can occur. For example, a high school choir director wants his/her choir to sing at a public event, but this can interfere with a vocal soloist who also wants the gig. The educator would be at fault because they are blocking the vocal performer's opportunity to get her/his name out into the world and if not that, a chance to make money with her/his profession. However, this does not mean education and performance cannot work together. In fact, they work extremely well together. Music professors, on a collegiate level, start out as performance majors in their undergraduate studies and stay on the performance track through their doctorate studies as well. This is because as a college music professor you must have a rich experience with your craft out in the real world. It also draws a lot more students to apply because of the accolades the faculty has from their past experiences in the music world.

http://www.earthwindandfire.com/2012/10/music-is-unity/

         Although this isn't stated in the code of ethics but, whether education or performance, music should inspire and unite everyone because music is not only a career but a door to opportunity. Music brings loved ones together, creates escape, gives humans across the world another way to express their deep and compelling thoughts. It's something the world will always need. As what the Hans Christian Andersen says, "where words fail music speaks", music will always be there for us to fill our lives with utter satisfaction and joyous nostalgia.

References: The Music Code of Ethics (1947). (2011, October 24). Retrieved February 4, 2016, from Center for the Study of Ethics in the Professions website: http://ethics.iit.edu/ecodes/node/5036

Prompt Post #3: An Interview with Ralph Skiano

Ralphskiano.com

         The music world is one the most competitive job fields in our society today. Classical music or any form of music that is not “Top 40” or mainstream is even more difficult to make a successful career out of. In some respects orchestras, operas, musicals, and even big band jazz ensembles are considered a dying art. However this does not discourage aspiring musicians to continue along this path in the classical world of music wherever it may take them. One musician, in particular, has truly made a nice career in music, Ralph Skiano. Ralph is a classical clarinetist and is currently the principal chair in the world renowned Detroit Symphony Orchestra. This past week I had an interview with Ralph Skiano about how to be successful in the field of music. He graduated from the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music with a BM in Clarinet Performance in 2002. Ralph is one of the rare musicians in the classical field to get a job right out of college. His first job was the principal chair of the Richmond Symphony Orchestra. He’s performed and acquired some other side jobs that we’ve talked about later on in the interview. The reason why I chose Ralph Skiano was because I knew him beforehand from playing in the Detroit Symphony Orchestra Civic Youth Ensembles in rehearsals with him. He also plays the same instrument as me and he relatively young and new in the music world so it’d be easier to relate to him because he’s modern day classical musician which I hope to become someday.

         In the interview I discussed with Ralph four main topics: Networking, jobs, auditions, and advice for young musicians. Before conducting the interview I did some background research on him and I came across his website so in the beginning of the interview I focused networking, specifically his website. Some questions I asked Ralph were “Was networking your main priority?”, “What was the main use for your website?”, and “Do you still use your website as the main source of your networking?” Ralph replied that he didn’t use his website as much because he got his first job right when he got out of Cincinnati Conservatory so networking a main priority. Currently he still does not use it as much but in the interview he said he uses it as a “landing site”. He put reviews about himself on his website so that way when people go looking for him they will his website and the reviews about him. This is his way of controlling what the media says about his musical career. In the future Ralph also said he would use his website as a way to help composers get their arrangements out in the world and reach out to music students trying to find their way in the music job field.

          Next I talked about the audition process which was short but very useful. When I was talking to Ralph about this topic time management kept popping up. He said along with practicing his repertoire for orchestras he was also trying to squeeze time in to prepare for auditions which can become quite difficult. On top of that auditions can be quite expensive. Ralph told me that all expenses for an audition are out of pocket and on top of that you’re missing a couple days of work. So in the end, auditions are “high risk-high reward” endeavors.

         Our next topics was side Jobs. I asked him questions such as, “Did you use side jobs as a source of income?”, “What groups did you play?” Ralph Skiano played in the Des Moines Metro Opera, Opera Festivals in France, and summer festivals such as the Britt Music Festival. Also Ralph Skiano said did not use these side groups as a source of income but instead as a source of inspiration and way to stay relevant in the music world.

         We finished off the interview with advice and tips for young musicians. Ralph told me that a good teacher, experience, and listening is what a student should worried about in the early years of their career. He especially emphasized the teacher aspect because what students learn from their teachers is what they’re going to do in the auditions. The style of the repertoire, technique, and overall musicianship derives from teacher and there are multiple ways of teaching. In fact, in the finals of the audition the judges will look at the applicant's resume and also who was their teacher. Experience is not only performance experience but also going to view live performances is key to a musician's success. This ties with the final concept of listening. Ralph says when practicing or spectating listen for new things. It will help you engage your brain to think of the piece in a new way expanding your overall musical intellect.

The Top Five Habits that Every Musician Needs

        As a musician developing our craft is the main goal in the end.  However along with mastering our craft a musician must learn to develop other habits as well.  A few weeks ago I worked with a team of music majors and we have decided on five habits that every musician should develop in the video below.

         From the video you just watched my team and I stated that networking, goal setting, time management, practicing, and "engaging your creativity" are the top five skills a musician needs in order to be successful.  They are ranked by priority starting with Number 5: networking.

         Networking is all about getting your name out in the world.  In society today, there are tons of unknown artists that are very talented but to make the right the connections.  Connections in music can be easily made in all sorts of ways.  For example, going to summer music festivals/camps are a great way for young musicians to start making connections. This is because usually the people who run or own these events can open a whole new branch of opportunities that were not tangible in your current social status.  Also your music teachers are a rich source of networking because they have been in the music world for years and are more than likely to know a lot of people that can help you get a job in the near future.  Even more simple than teachers are your colleagues and friends in music.  You never know when you're going to need them down the line because maybe they're the ones sitting behind the table interviewing you for a job.  Essentially, networking is a skill that has more of an accumulative effect on your career therefore the sooner you start the better off you will be in the long run.

         Goal setting and time management.  The reason why I am explaining them together is because they work really well together.  As a musician time management is extremely crucial.  Auditioning, performing, practicing, free lancing, networking, etc. they all take a good portion of time.  Finding the balance between everything can sometimes become overwhelming.  This is where goal setting becomes your best friend.  Not just regular goal setting but S.M.A.R.T. goal setting.  S.M.A.R.T. stands for: Specific, Time Manageable, Achievable, Relevant (not in acronym order).  Specific means to keep it clear and very precise.  For example, "I am going to practice the Weber Clarinet Concerto movement one".  Not only did I say I was going to practice the solo, but specific the section I would practice in the solo.  Next is Time Manageable.  Every goal needs a deadline so that way you are more motivated to find an efficient and time affordable way to successfully achieve the goal.  Achievable.  Achievable refers to if you are able to complete the goal with the current resources and time allotted to you.  If you make a goal that is far beyond your abilities not only are you making life hard for you but you are also wasting time in a goal that could be used to complete other goals.  Finally, relevancy.  Relevancy, in my opinion, is the most important part of S.M.A.R.T. because whats the point achieving the goal if doesn't improve any aspect of your life.  From a musician perspective, how does this goal improve your skills?  Will increase your chances of landing the job?  These questions are important to ask yourself because time is moving forward and its not waiting for you to make irrelevant decisions.  No matter how big or small the goal is be smart.  This skill will not only bring time balance but develops a system of discipline to get jobs done which every employer looks for in a person.

         Practicing.  This one is pretty explanatory.  Pretty much you must PRACTICE PRACTICE AND PRACTICE!!!!!!!!  There's no way you can become a better musician if you do not practice.  If the music is giving you issues practice extremely slow to the point it bothers you how slow you're practicing.  This skill is the bread and butter to a musician and must be treated with great care because in the end when you're not practicing there is someone else who is and little by little getting better than you.

         Finally, engaging your creativity.  I made this skill number one because this where you make your signature as a musician.  As shown in the video, this skill doesn't have an example to it because there's no standard for creativity.  Through practicing, goal setting, time management, and networking its all about getting creative.  It's something that can only be found within yourself.   What's that one thing that makes you different from the rest of musicians out there?  What's going to be the defining motif of how you played the solo compared to how the hundreds of other musicians played it?  Find the creative voice inside of you and use it to make your imprint onto the musical world.