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Music and the Fictive Dream: The Phantom of the Opera

The Phantom and Christine from the 2005 Broadway Play "The Phantom of the Opera," initially penned as a gothic mystery novel by Gaston Leroux in 1909, has evolved from its modest origins into cultural phenomenon. It has inspired countless fanfictions, films, and more notably, Broadway musicals. It follows the story of the young talented Christine Daaé, who becomes the obsession of the mysterious phantom. The musical maintains much of the book's gothic and dark romantical elements, but in my opinion, it better translates the fantastical appeal of an opera. Phantom of the Opera - 2004 The Novel was transformed into a musical by Andrew Lloyd Weber in 1988. In 2004, the musical was adapted into a film directed by Joel Schumacher, starring Emmy Rossum, Gerard Butler, and Patrick Wilson. This adaptation is among the more popular ones, and its music is what I will be sampling from. The music throughout the film is what drives the film's emotional impact. The vocals, parti...

Role of the Performer: Andrés Segovia

Andrés Segovia Andrés Segovia, often acclaimed as the father of the modern classical guitar, this title underscores the extensive influence he had on the instrument. While the guitar already had a significant history, it was his brilliance that lifted it to the stature of concert hall performances, integrating it into the sphere of esteemed classical music and securing its place among other well-established instruments like the piano and violin. Andrés was born in February 1893 in Linares, Spain, and at the age of two, he went to live with his aunt and uncle. Despite studying piano and cello, he was most passionate about the guitar. At six years old, he taught himself to play the guitar, as there were no A young Andrés Segovia available music instructors. At that time, the guitar was considered an inferior instrument, primarily used by street performers and café musicians. At the age of ten, he was relocated to Grenada by his aunt and uncle to ...

Musical Trip: Exploring Japan through Music

I chose Traditional Japanese music because I've always found it quite soothing and peaceful. It is a fusion of centuries-old cultural history, varied regional influences, and unique musical techniques. Understanding this genre requires an appreciation of its distinctive harmony, rhythms, tempo, and styles. We'll delve into these elements to provide a deeper insight into the unique character of traditional Japanese music. The Japanese word for music is "Ongaku" directly translates to comfort. Music has played a big part in Japanese culture. Since its birth, Japanese music has been a huge part of religious ceremonies, theatrical performances, and communal celebration. There are four main types of traditional music, each with their own unique rhythms, harmonies, and even instruments. Koto A notable feature of traditional Japanese music is its distinctive approach to harmony. Unlike Western music, which often revolves around ch...

The Waterphone: Evolutions and Origins

Modern Day Waterphone A waterphone, or an ocean harp, is a very unique instrument. It's crafted from a metal resonating bowl with a grip in the center, and prongs along the outer rim. Water can be added to the bowl to change pitch and sound resonance. They are fairly easy to play, although it's difficult to hold melody or rhythm. They can be played either with a bow or percussively. The waterphone creates an eerie shrill hum which has been described as a "sirens song". Its distinct sound has made it be primarily used in sound effects or soundtracks, but several rock musicians have also experimented with it. I've always wanted to play the waterphone, and I love being able to hear its cry in horror movies or in background sounds. ...

I am Eva - MUS Week #3

I am Eva Hello! I am Eva. I'm originally from New England, but I have moved pretty much all over. I finally settled in Alaska in 2017, but I hope to move out eventually. I'm here at UAF to get my associate of arts degree, but after I graduate, I plan to study criminology down in Arizona. Although Alaska has much to offer, I'm afraid it doesn't quite fit me. In the Summer, I like to get out and explore our state by going kayaking, canoeing, and rock climbing, if Summer classes and my job spare me some time:) My favorite place to go during the summer is Homer, but Hatchers Pass is a must during the fall. Hatcher's Pass I have always had an interest in music, and I feel ...