“That’s not real music.” Any educator, performer, and advocate of new music has undoubtedly encountered this statement. Audiences like what is comfortable – recognizable structure (symphony having four movements, sonata form being in three primary sections, recurring melody, etc.), a consistent rhythm and beat (waltzes, common time, etc.) and of course, a westernized tonal center complying with the social construct of “major = happy, minor =...
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by Alyssa Cowell, Catoctin School of Music It’s That Time of Year! December is in full swing and we’re getting ready for family celebrations. It’s easy to get lost in all the hustle and bustle of planning and partying. Consider setting aside some time to give the gift of sharing music during the holiday season – it requires some preparation, and a little sacrifice, but there...
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by Brianna Jaeger, Catoctin School of Music It’s Autumn 1939. The Wizard of Oz, featuring Judy Garland, premieres. LaGuardia Airport is unveiled in New York City. “You Are My Sunshine” is recorded for the first time. Concert pianist and composer Władysław Szpilman is performing a Chopin recital broadcasted for Polish Radio on September 23rd. In the background rings something percussive. Violent. Abhorrent. Harshly punctuating the lyricism of Poland’s beloved composer...
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By Alyssa Cowell, Catoctin School of Music My favorite egg shaker cracked recently, boo! Instead of hopping on Amazon or running to a local music store, I thought it might be fun to try using some modern technology to see if I could make my own! Let’s get started: I have a laser cutter and a stash of thin stock hardwood scraps – a promising start. Now...
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by Jamey Mann, Catoctin School of Music A highly debated and personal topic in the guitar world is changing guitar strings. Generally, it is recommended that guitar strings be changed about every three months which may seem fairly often. However, depending on how much you play and your personal tolerance/preference for aging strings, your mileage may vary. While strings should be changed regularly, it is surprising how...
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