Monday, Nov 26, 2007

Episode 11: Eight Principles for Unlocking Creativity

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Having worked with students on creative projects for some time now and in a variety of scenarios, I’ve arrived at a series of principles I use to shepherd kids along in the process of composing, arranging, and producing music. Follow these eight guidelines and I guarantee that you’ll be impressed by the creative products turned out by students of any age.

Posted by Dr. Scott Watson at 1:21 PM |  MAKE A COMMENT  

Sunday, Nov 11, 2007

Episode 10: Intersection of Life and Music

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From a rough high school trumpet lesson, to reflections on Plato's famous "cave" analogy, Episode 10 discusses both how life informs music and music informs our understanding of reality...HEADY STUFF INDEED from the fellow who in an earlier episode vaunted the virtues of marching band!

Posted by Dr. Scott Watson at 3:50 PM |  MAKE A COMMENT  

Monday, Nov 05, 2007

Episode 9: Encounter with Excellence

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Having a vision for excellence and beauty - for a perfect ideal - enables us to reach higher, achieve more, and appreciate goodness. When we have experienced excellence and beauty, we want it more for both ourselves and others. Music is a great medium in which to strive for excellence and beauty, and should be encountered often, if only in a small way.

Posted by Dr. Scott Watson at 4:05 AM |  1 comments  

Thursday, Nov 01, 2007

Episode 8: The Awesomeness of Pedal Point (Non-Harmonic Tones, part deux).

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Episode 7 included some life lessons we find by examining the way composers deploy "Non-Harmonic Tones." Episode 8 continues the discussion with a Non-Harmonic Tone Watson loves to hear in music, and use in his own compositions...the Pedal Point. With roots in music's past and lots of cool application in the music of today, the Pedal Point is a non-harmonic tone extraordinaire!

Posted by Dr. Scott Watson at 7:52 AM |  4 comments