Wednesday, February 14, 2007

Virtual Music

I came across an article which I thought was very interesting, something people should think about. As we all realize, technology is very quickly taking over the younger generation where they can't live without their computers or digital technology. This article though, really hit that point that students really take part in digital music. Yes, I digital music. Jonathan Kalafer a teacher in the Harmony Frequency Institute brings his innovative idea to classes. The article Virtual Music Production Is a Reality talks about his idea of using a virtual studio where students use a computer instead of instruments but can create their own songs and music. Of course there are some controversies that students aren't actually learning how to play an instrument which defeats the whole purpose of having a music class, but Kalafer begs to differ. They may not be learning how to play an actual instrument, but they are still learning about music as they are creating their own rhythms and beats and being able to play it for family.

In my opinion, I think that's a pretty cool idea and daring to use a virtual studio in the Institute as oppose to the traditional having a set of drums, guitar, keyboard, etc. It does definitely take getting used to for teachers and the older generation since they didn't grow up with this idea. But Kalafer has a point that the younger generation does enjoy it more because they can relate to using a computer since that's the lifestyle of most children these days.
On the other hand, personally I am very much in tuned with the digital age, but I still feel when it comes to music one should learn the instrument. Call me traditional, but that's how you really appreciate the music and how people like Mozart really felt when playing the piano. You feel more connected with musicians like him when you're playing the actual instrument. No doubt creating your own music on the computer does have its own charm and uniqueness, yet I like having NOT to rely on my computer when it comes to music.

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