Phillip Phillips: Home

Seeing as this song represented America in the London 2012 Olympics, most every American is already acquainted with this song. Seeing as it is American Idol winner Phillip Phillips' first single, the song has done exceptionally well in the music industry.

Home

So, the first thing about this song that strikes the listener is the interesting rasp that is the intrigue of Phillip Phillips' voice. The second is the interesting mix between folk music and pop that the song attempts to capture.

And does it! This song is unbelievable in its lighthearted mood and its ability to become an instant hit. There is not a soul in America that would not recognize the chorus.

But, here we come to the dilemma: the content of the lyrics is at best weak. There are only "oh"s as chorus lyrics and the verses are the same melody, same form, and identical lyrics. This is the only problem with this song.

Due to these observations, this song has earned 3 1/2 stars.

One Direction: Little Things

For the second entry in my week of reviews, we will take a look at One Direction's newly released song "Little Things" from their soon-to-be-released album, "Take Me Home".

Little Things

The first notable characteristic of this song is its noticeable lack of percussion. For a British boy-band noted for their thrilling and exciting "power pop", this is a unique turn for One Direction, one that I hope will continue.

Also, the guitar prelude into the song is slightly reminiscent of "Here Comes the Sun" by the Beatles. A sort of homage to the kings of British music? It also might pay to note that critics are calling the mass outbreak of "One Direction Infection" and the hype surrounding the Wanted and the Script a modern version of the 1960s "British Invasion". Perhaps One Direction, The Wanted, and The Script are our generation's Beatles, Rolling Stones, and Manfred Mann? Although American purists, if there are such people, may scoff at the influx of foreign acts, preferring Lady Gaga, Hot Chelle Rae and Pink (or P!nk); the many British and Irish bands coming to America are providing young Americans a way to learn about other cultures. This may be a remedy for the extremely culturally intolerant American people!

Back to the music!

The verses are very similar to the Harlem Renaissance style "spoken word", with a tune mixed in. This style of singing lends itself well to the lyrics of the song, describing the many meaningless things that comprise the object of the song's affection. However delicate and gentle the melody, the chorus is relatively weak in comparison. The message is understood, yet the way the lyrics are couple to the music is a little awkward.

The quiet yet pronounced plucking of guitar strings combined with this style of singing results in a very intimate love song. This mood has the effect of of melting the preteen girl's heart.

Finally, the lyrics:

This excerpt is taken from the chorus:

I won't let these little things slip out of my mouth
But if I do, it's you, oh it's you, they add up to
I'm in love with you and all these little things

Although literary content wise, the lyrics are nothing to hark about, I think that for the teenage girl, the lyrics speak to her. I can imagine that, with all their insecurities, hearing an exceeding adorable love song about a girl's minute quirks really comforts the millions of teenager girls listening. Also, the message "It's you they add up to" is very cute in that they imply that each seemingly small detail makes up the beauty of the person. This message can be augmented to state that inner beauty is more important than exterior looks. This, to me, is the most touching part if the song.

So, for touching lyrics, cute instrumentals, and mediocre melodies, this song has earned 3 stars.

One Direction: Live While We're Young

So, for the first review of this series today, I'll review "Live While We're Young" by One Direction. (Stay tuned for the review of "Little Things", by the same group.

Live While We're Young

Firstly, we can all recognize the opening rift from The Clash's "Should I Stay or Should I Go?". Although some critics dislike this opening, I can say that for a new anthem for a new album, the familiar rift acts as an instant draw. I believe that the critics who dislike this rift are the same who disliked "What Makes You Beautiful"'s opening rift from "Summer Nights". The music afterwards lacks a certain je ne sais qoui. Similar to Beyonce's "Single Ladies", there is a lot of excess noise included in the song. While listening, note the inclusion of a synthesizer once Zayn Malik begins his bridge. The synthesizer adds an element of fun to the song but, for a certain ear, detracts from the quality of the music.

The lyrics also add an element of fun

Let's go crazy, crazy, crazy till we see the sun
I know we only met but let's pretend it's love
And never, never, never stop for anyone
Tonight let's get some
And live while we're young
Woahhh oh oh oh
Woahhhh oh oh oh
And live while we're young
Woahhh oh oh oh
Tonight let's get some
And live while we're young

But, there is one aspect of the text that is somewhat questionable: "Tonight let's get some". This line shows the eternal conflict of boy bands: While the group is gradually growing older (Niall Horan was 17 at the birth of One Direction, he's now 20), the age-group that it's catering to seems to stay fairly constant. While a more pure mind wouldn't think twice about this line, a more mature audience hears a somewhat suggestive message from the seemingly innocent song. One Direction has encountered the "Awkward Boy Band Phase". Wanting to grow up, the boys have tried to branch out, without going as far as driving their younger audience members away. 

However, this topic will be saved to talk about in detail at a later time. 

Due to the infectious nature of the song, the carefree lyrics, and decent vocals, I give "Live While We're Young 3 1/2 stars.

Apology

Hi! It's been a very long time since I've posted!

This trend will not continue. I promise I will continue to post reviews, answer questions, and post music related material on Music Is Beautiful and life material on Life Is Beautiful

Long time!

Wow,

I haven't been on in a while! Summer is coming to a close. That means school is around the corner. So, what are your 2012-2013 school year goals? I think it's important to always have goals; that way you never run out of things to look forward for!

Mine are as follows:
-Learn enough French to be able to converse with my French friend
-Learn more instruments (specifically mandolin, banjo, bass clarinet, electric guitar, etc.)
-Get some really good grades for my junior year
-Think of some more goals

So, what are you looking forward to for this school year? What is helping you to get by? I'd like to know!

we are

This is a song by Craig Hella Johnson. The song states that we are more than what people say.

I am a boy, a musician, a diabetic, a high schooler, a son, a brother, and a friend.

But, I am so much more than these labels. I am a human being; alive, and ever growing. Mere words cannot accurately depict my meaning. Even the simplest of things: my name; cannot describe me. I am not "Christian". This is but a title.

We are more than labels. Everyone has meaning. Everyone is unique. This is why names are inadequate. There may be hundreds of Tylers in the world, but there is only one you.

Also, I have a quote from the song:

if you could know for one moment how it is to live in our bodies within the world

you ask to much of us

you ask to little

-"we are", Michael Dennis Browne

This can be interpreted many ways. One way is to say that, in this example, my life is difficult and say to someone that if they only knew how hard my life is, they'd understand. Another is to say that my life is great and that if only someone less fortunate could see how amazing it is to be mr. Finally, I think it is a combination. This is meant to show the reader how lives differ from each other. We must grow and compensate for others's losses and expect the same.

you ask to much of us...

This is the most moving passage. I'm a music kid. Sports and cars and girls are a huge part of "being a man". Or at least culture says so...

I've been expected to follow this rule of society but I refuse! I feel it is unjust to ask from me something not in my nature.

And yet, my talents: music and language; are not appreciated enough. I am not given the chance to show what I can do.


I know I am not alone in this school of thought.

I know I sound radical.

I know life must have more meaning than just names.

Please, let me know what you think. Let me know how this text speaks to you.

New Blog

Hi!

If you've read my last blog post, you'll know that I was considering a new blog about life.

Then I thought: Why not?

So, here's my new blog: Life Is Beautiful! Check it out!

We All Need Quests

Are you watching the Olympics?

If you answered yes, you are one of the more than 40 million people watching.

If a timpanist were to play "bum, bum, da, bum, bum" on an Eb and a Bb, would you instantly know what they were playing?

Well, in the sixteen years I've been alive, I've heard the introduction to the Olympics at least eight times. But, I never knew what the song was called until recently.

I LOVE the Olympics. And, as such, I go through an "Olympics phase" about three weeks prior to the Opening Ceremony. So, this year I took the initiative to discover the identity of the distinct "Olympic theme."

So, after about 2 minutes of searching, I found what I was looking for: "Bugler's Dream" by Leo Arnaud.

Now, this little anecdote may leave you questioning: "Why waste my time?" or "No one cares about your problems, Christian.". But, wait. There's more:

This experience of having a goal and trying to attain it got me thinking: we all need a quest. Think about it: toddlers like helping Mommy do things beacuse it's a task. Little kids, boys in this example, like being called a "big boy." This makes them feel like they have a major part to play in their family, regardless how small their task(s) really are. Even teenagers like to schedule things with their friends and see those plans carried out.

So what in our genetics tell us to have a task and to accomplish it? Why do we need to have a mission?

I think it's because we need to feel like we're needed. If we serve no purpose, are we needed? Do we cease being a thinking and intelligent life-form and just become a caner to society?

I think that's the mentality of the need to have a task.


So, did I get it right? What do you think? Also, let me know if you think I should create a new blog to discuss other, non-musical topics, or just re-direct this blog to less of a music blog and more of your average blog.

The Opening Ceremony

So, as the rest of the world watches, I'm writing a blog post about the 2012 London Olympics!

I'm not going to elaborate too much on the subject because I'm watching it as well but, I think we should remember the rest of the world as we celebrates these Olympics.

Remember those not fortunate as you and those in dire circumstances.

Go world!

Stories

So, after my failed attempt at trying to create some buzz on this blog, I'm going to try again!

So I saw a quote on the Internet:

"You know my name; not my story. You know what I've done; not what I've been through."

So here's my idea: you know my story (if you don't, look at "16 Years of Music" on May 28, 2012) but I don't know yours. So, until I end my blog, I'm going to feature my readers in blog posts tagged "My Story".

You have a story, how ever small it might seem to you. You deserve the chance to be heard. I assume most of my readers are either my friends or other music people, so this could be really interesting. But even if you aren't a music person, you could end up featured.

I'll give you a window of opportunity: the "My Story" posts will be on Sundays. Email me your story by Friday and it will be considered. All stories will be considered, no biases. Also, if you send a story, it will end up on the blog at some point in time.

So, let me hear from you!

Here's my "My Story" email: usaginger40@gmail.com

Have fun!

Firework -Katy Perry

It's been a long time since I've done a review...

So, even though this song was released in 2009, I think a lot about it.

In my opinion, Katy Perry's Firework cannot be reviewed solely on musicality; One must also look at the literary content within the infectous beat and soaring vocals. One must analyze the message of the music video combined with the uplifting lyrics.

"Do you ever feel like a plastic bag? Drifting through the wind, wanting to start again?" It doesn't take to much thought to realize that the lyrics are trying to tell the listener(s) that they are worth something to society. The song goes on to say "You don't have to feel like a waste of space. You're orginal, cannot be replaced." Frankly, I think that these words are meant to remove a feeling of hopelessness and depresssion from the listener.

Now, I'd like to examine the music video. The video, which I will post below, is a series of stories told through silent film, with Firework playing over it. A young cancer survivor in a ward, a depressed homosexual youth, a bullied magician, an overweight teen, and a victim of domestic abuse. These are situations that, typically, leave those involved hopeless, hurt, and lost. However, in all of these cases, the characters somehow manage through, and, become stronger.

The cancer survivor sees a women giving birth and, we can infer, realizes that life is worth something. The young homosexual decides to take a chance and confront his fears of "coming out" by kissing his love interest, who returns his kiss. The magician is bullied in an alleyway, and decides to take out his tricks and amazes his attackers. The overweight girl is very shy and hides from attention; she chooses to remove her clothing, revealing her bikini, and leaps into a pool. The domestic abuse victim is, in my opinion, the most touching. The young boy, (maybe 10?), witnesses his father abusing his mother, and hides from it. As his mother falls, he stands up and confronts his father, pushing him back.

In all these cases, the music perfectly correlates to what is going on.

Finally, the music! The chorus is absolutely stunning. Katy Perry excells at soaring and penetrating vocals. This suits the song well. Unfortunately, however inspirational the text, the melody of the verses is somewhat lacking. However, the lower register and uninteresting melody of the verse contrasts well with the high register and melodic interest in the chorus. The bridge, (Boom, boom, boom, even brighter than the moon, moon, moon...), is very interesting. Combining the onomatopoeia, Boom!, of a firework and the uplifting message of "It's always been inside of you, it's time to let it through...", it does well to connect the two thoughts of explosives and personal image.

So, as you can probably tell, this is my longest review, due to my interest in the message. However, I still would give it four and a half stars due to the content and beautiful portrayal, but not five because of the uninteresting melodic lines of the verses.

Katy Perry-Firework  

Remembering a Life

I am sorry I have not recently posted a heartfelt, involved blog post recently. This is because my grandmother, Mary Lou Messier, passed away three weeks ago this Sunday.

I cannot describe the pain that comes with the loss of a loved one. All I can say is this Irish blessing.

"May the road rise up to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back,
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
And the rains fall soft upon your fields.

Until we meet again my friend,
Until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of his hand"

God bless you, Mary Lou

Happy Fourth of July!

As you go about watching parades, listening to marching bands, remember those who have died that gave allowed you to celebrate another year of freedom.

Happy 4th!

Poll Results!

So, if you've been using the web version of my blog, you'll have noticed the poll on the upper, right corner.

For the past 19 days, I've had the question "What's your favorite instrument?" up.

There was not a clear winner out of the answers, but "piano" pulled ahead. Close second was given to strings.

So, here's my question: why? What about the piano makes it your favorite instrument? Get back to me by the 6th and on the 7th, I'll share my thoughts.

Series Ending

I'm sorry. I was not getting enough comments to warrant the continuation of the "Submit"series.

But, if you think that I should continue it, let me know.

In the meantime, I have a quick question for you: What could you not live without? Answer this by Sunday, July 1. I'll be writing a post about this topic.

Have a great Friday!

Another Quote

"There is no feeling,
except the extremes of fear and grief,
that does not find relief in music."
~ George Eliot (1819-80) ~

So, although I've already done a music quote, I think I'll continue posting them.

This quote says a lot to me. I find sanctuary in music. When you cannot turn anywhere else, music is always there. When friends and family seem distant, music is always familiar.

If you find a quote you think illustrates your take on music, please, leave it in the comments below.

Also, I'll be adding s link to my Tumblr any day now, so be looking for that.

The Future of Music?

All of last week, I attended a composition camp at MacPhail Center for Music in Minneapolis. No where have I ever seen so much talent in one room before.

I can't name names (unless you identify yourself in the comments) but I can share stories.

On the second day, I sat down at the piano and began to play a composition I call "For Sarah". As I finished the piece, a boy we'll call Forrest, asked me to stop and start again, this time with guitar accompaniment. Not missing a beat, two boys, José and Israel, began to beatbox to the song.

The next day, Forrest got out his violin and fiddled to the tune of my song. José jumped onto the nearby drum set and another boy, Paris, started strumming on the guitar.

As I said, no where have I ever seen so much talent and dedication to music in one room before.

One girl, Cameron, composed, in my humble opinion, the best piano, violin, and cello piece I have ever heard. The humility of these people astounded me. I don't believe she understood how amazing, beautiful, and emotional her piece was. She simply shrugged off praise. So, Cami, if you're reading, know that your piece touched my heart.

Another girl, Georgiana, was sick and was unable to finish her piece before the concert. It was vocal and some parts of the text had to be spoken. It was stunning and very dramatic. She was embarrassed by the piece. I can say, it was one of the best pieces there.

Why am I going on and on and on about this? Why am I not writing some deeply thoughtful post about my experience? Because, the kids I'm writing about are 8-10 graders. I'm older than most of them. And yet, these composers created music that rivals some of the best, professional works I've heard.

If this is what the future of music holds, I am extremely proud to be a part of this era. But I am more proud to call these amazing people my peers.

Submit Pop

I'm sad. I got absolutely no submissions for baroque music. I'll give it one more try.

SUBMIT POP

There, now I've given you the genre for this week. Please, don't let me down.

By the way, my "Fave Five" would be as follows
-Solfegietto(?)
-Bach' Prelude and Fugue in D minor
-Bach Prelude in E Major
-Handel La Folia
-Pachabel Canon in D

Remember, you have 6 days.

A quote...

"Music does bring people together.
It allows us to experience the same emotions.
People everywhere are the same in heart and spirit.
No matter what language we speak, what color we are,
the form of our politics or the expression of our love and our faith,
music proves: We are the same."
~ John Denver ~

What have I been saying in my blog? Haven't I stressed the fact that music is a key part of coexisting with one another? Haven't I said that music dispels our petty differences? All I believe to be true about music is summed up within this quote. (Actually, no, I have plenty more to say)

I think that this quote, among countless others, accurately expresses my convictions about music. Music is so much more than a unified series of sounds. Music is an overwhelming torrent of pure emotion, allowing the participants, both performers and listeners, the opportunity to escape for a moment. I cannot think of another man-made experience similar to music.

So, here's today's question/quest: Find a quote, doesn't have to be related to music, that expresses your beliefs about a certain topic. I chose music because that's my passion. (Also, because this blog is called MUSIC is Beautiful)

Happy Father's Day

Although this post has absolutely nothing to do with music, I think it's important to recognize the "holiday".

To all the fathers in the world, we owe a huge thank you. You help us to be stronger and to grow. You aren't given given the appreciation you deserve every day.

Thank you so much.

Happy Father's Day!

New "Series": Baroque

So I've decided to make a "series". It will go something like this:

I'll post a genre of music on Friday. You, my readers, have exactly six days to submit your favorite songs from that genre.

I'll try to go in somewhat chronological order, starting with baroque. I realize that I've skipped medieval music and gregorian chant, but I'll do those another time.

After you submit your favorite songs from the era, I'll listen to them and compile a list of my "Top Five".

I think this is a great way to get people to listen to other genres.

So, the posts' titles will be, except today's, "Submit..." and then the name of the genre. I encourage you to look up the genre even if you don't particularly care for it. Leave a title or YouTube link or something in the comments below!

The Minnesota Boychoir

I was thinking yesterday about what else I could post about and then it hit me: the Boychoir.

I couldn't believe I didn't say anything sooner!

So, if you've read my blog a little, you'll notice references to the Minnesota Boychoir scattered throughout my posts. The Minnesota Boychoir is an organization where boys who live in and near the Twin Cities region can go to sing. This year, on August 5, will mark 50 years of existence for the Boychoir. It is the oldest children's chorus in Minnesota and is known and tours internationally.

(For the non-Minnesotan readers: Minnesota is a state in the middle of the United States. The Twin Cities are Minneapolis and our Capitol, St. Paul.)

I have been a member of the Boychoir for 8 years. There is no organization like it. When I first joined, I fidgeted and had very little knowledge of music. Now, 8 years later, I can stand for hours on end without fidgeting.

Not only is the choir a musical experience but also a family experience. I'll tell my stories about this but, if any readers are Minnesota Boychoir singers or Alumni, please share your experiences.

Often, in today's society, we are too absorbed in our own lives to realize what is going on around us. Our jobs, cars, phones, and televisions pull us away from what really matters: relationships. The choir challenges this fact by creating a community of friends, singers, and ultimately brothers. I have a sister and about 120 brothers because of the Minnesota Boychoir. I'm not going to mislead you and say I get along perfectly with every one of them, but I feel a close bond between myself and each of the boys.

Our director, Mark Johnson, is something like a second father to me. When I was diagnosed with diabetes, he called me to see how I was doing. When I directed for the first time in eighth grade, he came to support me. When I got West Nile, he visited me in the hospital.

All in all, the Boychoir is far more than a choir. Far more than an organization. Far more than anything money can buy. It is a separate family, a safe place, and above all a place of growth. I can think of nothing I would rather have spent half of my life doing.

If you'd like to learn more about us (and see a picture of me!), check out our web page: www.boychoir.org

(I'm in the picture of our logo juxtaposed over choir boys)

Car Music

When I'm in a car, I have to be listening to music. I have only a few guidelines as to what I listen to: no rap, no hip-hop, and as little country as possible.

(If you'd like to convert me to these genres, leave a link to YouTube or leave some song names)

What I've found is that, as in most cases, the music that someone listens to in the car reflects a lot about who they are. I was recently picked up from an end-of-the-year party by a friend's brother. What told me it was okay was the fact that he was listening to a classical guitar network, at midnight. Obviously, this boy was not "scary" or violent.

Similarly, when I'm in a car, driving or riding, I prefer to listen to moderately upbeat music. Nikki Manaj and Lady Gaga also hold a special place for my car music. I think that the music you listen to really impacts your driving/riding experience and mood.

So, the question is: Did I get it right? Or am I way off? How does the music you listen to in the car effect you?

What Are Your Goals?

Today is the first official day of summer for ISD194 kids! I'm excited for the next three months of relaxation, music making, and hanging out with friends.

If you read my 16 Years of Music post, you'll know that my last summer was cut short due to West Nile.

So, this summer, I'm going to strive for quite a lot of stuff.

It's my summer of "Social Life Augmentation". Meaning that on planning on going out with friends more this summer. In fact, I've gone out with friends for the past three nights.

Also, it's my summer of music. I've got a composition camp, All-State choir, and several Minnesota Boychoir events. Furthermore, I'm going to *try* to learn the violin, banjo, and work harder on the guitar.

I think it's good to plan out things. That way, you'll be able to feel fulfilled afterwards.

So, here's the question (and, seriously, if you answer it, your name doesn't show up anywhere and I won't contact you, so please answer!): What are your summer plans? Do they involve music? What would make you feel fulfilled at the end of August?

Also, please, let me know what songs you want to see reviewed, or what you'd like me to discuss!

Equal Treatment

The cruelty of high school astonishes me sometimes. How people can be utterly heartless amazes me. I cannot understand why people hurt one another. We all share this world. Why make it unenjoyable for each other?

You know, I often post about the power of music and how music could bring about peace. I truly believe this: there is nothing more powerful than collaboration. Yet, I feel disheartened and I lose faith in humanity when I see instances of bigotry, racism, discrimination, and bullying.

I pride myself in being accepting of other people. I realize that not everyone gets along with everyone else. That's not wrong. What's wrong is that people see things they don't agree with, people they view as outsiders, and opinions they do not share and choose to impose their ideas upon others. This can come in many ways.

I'm a music kid. I'm teased all the time. I completely understand where victims are coming from. I, too, know how hopeless it can feel. But what I cannot understand is where the bullies come from. I've heard that their self confidence is diminished and to make up for their insecurities, they put down others.

All I ask is that the world be a better place. A place where people from every life can celebrate who they are. Where no one discriminates. No one judges. No one hates.

I honestly think music is part of that mission. If we can sing together, we can grow together.

I'm Yours- A Cover by Me

So if you're friends with me on Facebook, you've probably already seen the link for this video. I just wanted to put this on the blog because it pertains to music. Watch it if you'd like. Leave a comment on YouTube or here. Thanks for supporting me!

I'm Yours by Jason Mraz Cover

16 Years of Music

Because tomorrow will mark my sixteenth birthday, I feel like expressing how my life has been surrounded by music. I hope that my story will inspire others to get involved in music.

At an early age, my mother could already tell that I was a good musician. When I began singing at three or so, I was always on pitch. Whereas some kids just talk with pitch, I actually sang. At weddings I'd ask the musicians, such as the harpist or the string quarter, to play Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.

In elementary school, I'd try to teach the music class, to my teachers annoyance. Finally she called my mom up saying, "Carol, your son drives me crazy, but you need to get him into a choir."

It was then I joined the Minnesota Boychoir, this being 2005. I was a member of Junior Chorus. It was also around this time that I started taking piano lessons. At first, I hated them. But, when I figured out that I could learn songs I knew, such as Mary had a Little Lamb, I started enjoying them. As my interest in music began to grow, so did my knowledge. My choir and piano lessons helped me to learn music theory way before most kids begin to get the basics.

In 2007, I was accepted into Cantablie and was invited to go on tour with the Minnesota Boychoir (from here on MNBC) to Australia. At the tender age of 11, I had begun my international singing adventures. Also around this time, I began learning the trumpet. Once again, my knowledge of other forms of music contributed to my trumpet playing.

In 2009, I was diagnosed with type I diabetes. Although my life had been turned upside down on Wednesday, May 27, I was able to celebrate my birthday at home on the 29th of May. A few weeks later, my choir went on tour to Alaska as the entertainment onboard a cruise ship. I, along with many members of my family, went along with this trip.

At the same time, I had gotten braces. Due to the pain from playing the trumpet with them, I moved to French horn and then baritone.

In eighth grade, I was cast as the boy soloist in Leonard Bernstein's Mass and was broadcast over Minnesota Public Radio. I was also cast in a workshop for a newly written musical at the Guthrie theatre in Minneapolis. The same year, my grandfather died. I asked my grandma if I could sing for the funeral. It was one of the hardest things I've ever done, but I could see, by the faces in the congregation, that it meant more than I could imagine. That sumner my choir went to Portland, Oregon for a youth choir festival. This would be the first time I had ever been away from my family for an extended period of time.

Over the rest of the summer, I taught myself flute, saxophone, and clarinet.

In mid-July, my 17 year old cousin Karl drowned. I was asked by his mother to sing at his funeral. I can say, with the utmost certainty, that singing for his funeral, Be Still My Soul, was the single most difficult thing I've ever done.

In 2010, I entered 9th grade. I told my band director I'd play anything he wanted me to. He asked me to play tuba. Throughout this year, I began to compose and try new instruments: organ, bassoon, guitar, ukulele, and oboe.

In the summer of 2011, my choir was invited to sing at the Vatican for high Mass on the feast day of St. Paul and St. Peter. It just so happens that I live near St. Paul and that on the day we sang, we went to both St. Paul's Church and St. Peter's Basilica. Two months later, I was diagnosed with West Nile which put me in the hospital for eighteen days and out for the count for nearly 5 months.

In 10th grade, after numerous budget cuts, I was accepted into my high school's Chorale and Wind Ensemble. I played bassoon in band and sang 1st tenor in choir. Due to a boy dropping Encore, my school's a cappella group, I was asked to join. I arranged several pieces for Encore, and sang a solo.

And here I am. Three years and one day after my diagnosis. Fifteen years, 364 days, 17 hours and 19 minutes later. I look back and I see the obstacles I've faced. I look back and I see the joys I've experienced.

I ask you, reader. What is your dream? How hard are you willing to fight for it?

My dream is music. Although I'm teased, brushed off, and put aside, I know that there is one thing no one can ever take away from me: my dreams. Throughout sickness, loss, suffering and disappointment, I've never stopped trying. I've never said "You know, this might not work out for me. I should quit." I've never said no to my dreams and I look how far I've come.

I found a journal entry from kindergarten and it said this: "When I get older, I'm going to be successful."

I love that. It wasn't a dream then, it was a statement of fact.

Now that I see myself now. In all my flaws, insecurities, and faults, I can say, despite the things I lack, I'm successful.

Don't ever stop dreaming.

It gets better.

Trust me.

Music "In the Wild"

As we enter the American holiday Memorial Day weekend, I think it's a good idea to think about the effect on life that music has.

(I know, not very connected.)

I'm camping at William O'Brian State Park this weekend. I was thoughtful enough to bring my guitar. Even so, I miss the music that civilized life has to offer. I am very fortunate to live in a society where music is encouraged. Whereas camping can make some people feel close to nature, it makes me feel separated from my true love, music. It's at these times that I must remember there is music all around us.

So here's the question: how does music impact your daily life? And, if it does, what would be the effect of not having it?

Happy Memorial Day weekend, everyone!

What Is A Choir?

I am in the extraordinary position of being a member of three choirs and one band. I'm not sure how many people can grasp just how close knit choirs become.

I have been a member of my school's a cappella group for less than six months and yet I feel a strong sense of camaraderie amongst them.

And although I've been in my school's Chorale for just under nine months, everyone there is exceedingly supportive.

Lastly, I've been a member of the Minnesota Boychoir for over eight years and I can honestly say that the bonds we have to each other are not comparable to the bonds of a sports team. I know that when I walk into my choir's rehearsal space, all judgement, all conflicts, and all of life's problems dissipate for the two hours that I'm there.

Unfortunately for the Lakeville School District, the school board has decided that it doesn't care about the music department. That because we do not teach conventional education, we are somehow inferior to the rest of the academic world. They continue to cut our classes and teachers. I described to you what my experience with the Boychoir, but how can a music program at school ever come even close to that if they are not given the chance? I ask you, if you are a member of Lakeville Schools, to share this on Facebook, Twitter, or any other social networking site so that we may band together and stop our schools' music programs from disintegrating.

Church Music

I'm Catholic and, yes, we do pray to Mary. Today at Mass, the cantor sang Caccini's Ave Maria. While the performance was not flawless, the soloist did an outstanding job. The song also got me thinking: how well does the music we sing at church express our worship of God?

I found that by listening to the ethereal sound of the female voice, reverberating within the church, I experienced something almost divine. It felt as if I could hear the angels singing. Frankly, this song is perfect for emulating the joy and faith in God that the church has.

I'm a fan of Gregorian chant and Boroque style music so this might seem a little behind the times but I really feel that this type of singing is the best for expressing the love for a divine Creator.

What's your opinion? Whatever faith (or lack thereof) you have, how does music influence it?

Where the Music Comes From

Have you ever felt that there's a song inside of you? Have you ever heard music that no one else can hear?

If you answered yes, this post applies to you.

Something in my being knows that music is right for me. I've known for a fairly long time. And yet, when I try to find the source of my musical passion, I come up short.

I know that I'm the most comfortable when I'm doing music. I know that I always hear a song. But what I don't know is where that "instinct" , per say, originates. I'm not the only one either.

Many people feel that something in music resonates within them. Many people know that music is their element. But what makes it so?

So, leave a comment, please. Tell me where you think the music comes from. Tell me why you think it resonates within you.

Naturally Musical

It's a beautiful day here in Lakeville, Minnesota! Last night we got a thunderstorm but it got me thinking; music is all around us. All you have to do to hear it is to immerse yourself with nature. When surrounded by nature, you can hear the most remarkable things. Can you honestly tell me what rain on a pine tree sounds like? Can you hear the rustle of fresh fallen snow? I can, and so can you. As a composer, I constantly search for inspiration but often times I draw it from my own backyard. I can hear music in everything around me when I am in the woods. When I hear a pretty run by a bird, I translate that to a piccolo. When I hear rain, I see a tremolo orchestra.I feel that music is inescapable.No matter how much you may deny music. No matter how much you may love sports, school, or other activities, you can never escape the pull of music. I can't and you can't. It is ingrained into our being. So, I challenge you: find music in something unconventional over the course of this week and tell me what it was. There are absolutely no wrong answers. I want to fond out what you perceive to be naturally musical.
And, let me know what country you're from, just for some context

Something Beautiful

I'm sure you've heard the mantra "Silence is golden" before. Today I got a taste of what that really means.

As a fairly garrulous person, I often don't spend time admiring the phenomenon of silence. Often, I spend time Talking about pointless things just to hear my own voice. I rarely encounter silence and, consequently, lack the skills to appropriately react to it.

Also, I have a photographic memory. Therefore, I rely on images for everything. Unfortunately, because of this, I tend to focus way to much on the small things, such as an askew picture, rather than taking the time to absorb the bigger picture.

Something changed me today.

My a cappella group at school was practicing in our auditorium and decided to turn the lights off. Typically, I find these things immature and a waste of time. Yet, something today told me to wait.

Instantly I was robbed of the two things I find so familiar: sound and sight. The only sound I could hear was the whisper of my fellow singers. The only sight I could perceive was the dim illumination of the seats from an overhead window.

I blew my pitch pipe and we began to sing.

At once I knew something was different. The song we sing is MLK and I have the solo. With the opening words "Sleep, sleep tonight. And may your dreams be realized", I felt the text resonate somewhere deep within me. I felt like I was hearing the song for the first time.

When we had finished the piece, nobody spoke. Nobody giggled. There was nothing but complete silence. No applause to detract from the music. Absolutely nothing.

This is why I choose music over all else. No where can you go to be so in tune with your inner being. No where is there a place where you can connect on a higher level than in music.

Music is beautiful. It allows us to experience everything. It allows us to express everything. It allows us to be everything. And that truly is something beautiful.

What Music Means to Me

Lately I've been thinking about how much of my life is devoted to music...

I've found that I can trace practically everything I do do back to music. I wake up in the morning and go to our school's a cappella group. An hour later, I go to band or choir. When I get home, the first thing I do is homework but then I grab my laptop and compose or sit down at the piano.

When I feel down, one of the few things that can comfort me is music. When I feel happy, it is usually related to music.

I tend to view music as almost a person, albeit a silent one, who knows all of my insecurities, all of my pain, all of my joy, and all of my dreams. It consoles me. It congratulates me. It is there when no one else is. If I had to name my "best" friend, I'd say music.

So, my question for you, readers, is this: what does music mean to you?

The Band Perry: If I Die Young

Here's another review...I'm sure most of you are familiar with this song. If not, as I always do, I'll post a link. The first thing that catches people's attention in this song is the opening verse "If I die young, bury me in satin, lay me down on a bed of roses, sink me in the river at dawn, send me away with the words of a love song." at first glance, the words sound suicidal. Yet, if we delve a little deeper, we see the contentment with life that the speaker has. The words in the remainder of the verse are "I've had just enough time". This clearly portrays her acceptance of life and what it had to offer. Many people get caught up in "the sharp knife of a short life" comment. I think it is a metaphor for the pain that death causes for loved ones. Frankly, the lyrics are heartfelt, the melody catchy (with beautiful violin solos), and the message unique. I give this song 4 out of 5 stars.

Global Music

So, I've got a quick post for today.

I know that it can be easy to get trapped by today's popular music, so I wanted to know what 'ethnic' music you like.

So please post below your favorite cultural music.

iPods and iPhones

So I've been thinking, how must life have been without the luxury of iPods and iPhones?

I mean seriously, before sound could be recorded, the only music people could have heard was the piano in the saloon, the nickelodeon in the theatre, and the organ at church.
I think we, as technically advanced people, tend to under-appreciate how lucky we are. I can, if I wish, listen to country, stop the song midway, switch over to dub-step, and switch again to classical music. Imagine the monotony and silence of a world where you cannot freely choose the background music that accompanies your life.

I simply cannot comprehend it. As a person who relies on music for comfort, inspiration, joy, and love, I cannot simply entertain the notion of a world of silence.

But, I think that the music that we listen to really says a lot about us as people; back then, people listened to whatever was playing, but now we have the luxury of choosing the music that accompanies their life. I can listen to Angel by Sarah McLachlan to console myself in my insecurities, to If I Die Young by The Band Perry to think about what I have to be thankful for, and to Party Rock Anthem for that party mood.

So here's the question for today's post. What song(s) reflect your life's movie. We could create a soundtrack to our lives. And, if you read this, answer the question, and like this blog on Facebook and follow it.

Music and Life

I think that anyone can attest to the notion that music can affect every single person in the world, whether in a poor country or rich, lover or hater of music. If you look at any indigenous tribe of Africa, there always is a way for the people to praise the gods through song. People whistle when they are bored. If your see it my way, it seems like we cannot survive without music. I definetly couldn't. Some innate sense deep within our instinct/soul (depending on spiritual beliefs) tells us that we must make noises to form some type of melody, whether complex or not. And yet, the world is full of violence. Why does no one try to use music as an instrument of peace? It is the universal language! Frankly, I have found that music can really bring life to people. I really feel that music is the strong foundation in this world. What's your opinion?

Pit Orchestra

I think that one the most humbling experiences in music is that of accompanying singers during a production. Although I am a singer and actor, I would describe myself as foremostly a musician. I am playing the synth cello for a high school production of The Wizard of Oz. There truly is nothing that shows how coesive music is as working in an orchestra. To feel the power, the excitement. It is just one reason why music is truly a universal art. People of every age, race, sex, orientation, every walk of life, can join together and become a group.

Christina Perry: Jar of Hearts

This song is two years old. This review is a little late.

Good, we established that.

Christina Perry: Jar of Hearts
So the only thing that strikes me in this song, other than the biting and emotional lyrics, the mostly beautiful singing, and the impressive interpretive dancing in the music video, is the really annoying "who do you think you are?". You know what I'm talking about.

The piece shows off Christina's beautiful voice and her gorgeous pitch, but she falls a little when she sings the last lyric. Why does she choose to end the song with a let down? My only explanation is that she is trying to emulate the style "spoken word." It seems as if when she wrote it, she decided to make the ending of the song sound like she is speaking with pitch.

But other than the disappointing ending, the song has a beautiful and saddening message. How many of us feel that we can never get over a bad relationship but, after a while, we feel stronger because of our loss?

I would give this song 3 and a half stars.

Let me know what you think in the comments below.

One Direction: What Makes You Beautiful

So, as I'm sure many people have heard this song (and if you haven't, I'll post a link to youtube), you might know a little about the geral layout of it. I find the beat to be infectous, the lyrics to be flattering but it lacks an engaging melody. Frankly, I'm not sure what else to say about this song. I could see it as the background music in a highschool party, but not the music played at prom.

When it's all said and done, I'd give it three stars.

If you have any suggestions, objections, or anything else, leave a comment.

One Direction: What Makes You Beautiful

Also, if you have any suggestions for songs to be reviewed, le me know!

First Blog

So, I'm on Blogger now. I'm going to use this page to review new music by popular bands, create "heartfelt" blogs about music that people comment on, and generally log about music.