To sit and dream with music as my guide, this I did during Brent Arnold’s album-release concert of Night, Exquisite at Rockwood Music Hall in December. My favorite way to hear music is live, especially for the first time. To sit naively and be greeted by something entirely new, a new sound, a new idea can be special and I consider these moments as one-of-a-kind and hard to forget. I wasn’t disappointed as four cellists joined Brent to create one dense cello sound; thanks to Raymond Sicam III, Isabel Castellvi, Meaghan Burke and Loren Dempster. Since Brent’s music is one cello that is looped and layered, it was interesting to hear and see it as collaboration among several performers. Neat that he recorded these melodies on various trips across the country and around the world to return home and put them together to create an album and then take them apart again for a live concert with friends. Between songs, Brent would briefly tell of his travels and inspiration for each song; the concert becoming much like sharing a scrap book of his adventures. Some songs were quiet and dreamy like the title track, “Night, Exquisite,” with its own hushed pulse, but others had a gentle groove like “King of May.” I was surprised by “A Ghost in the Library” when Brent sang a falsetto line with his cello- so sweet to hear a voice after all the bowing and plucking and such an ethereal moment, I couldn’t help but be a bit teary-eyed. As a whole, the concert had a contemplative feel with a touch of sweet melancholy, but not without its brighter, hopeful moments- much enjoyed! Kudos to the bread-making cellist/composer!
-Sally, Winter 2013
December 31, 2013
December 30, 2013
Drake at Barclays
I finally fulfilled my greatest dream in life, to see my most loved and appreciated artist. I have been in love with Drake, since I was 11 years old, watching him on my favorite teen show, Degrassi. I felt as if I was growing up with him on the show, going through his crisis alongside him. When he quit the show to begin his music career, I fell in love with him even more. His lyrics were deep and heartfelt, something hard to come across in rap music these days. It seems that most artists focus on sex and drugs, while he emphasized finding love as well as finding yourself. So, when I heard that he was performing at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, you can imagine my absolute exhilaration and elation.
The venue was amazing. It was the biggest concert I've ever been to and will probably ever go to. The amount of floors seemed infinite and there were so many people; it was almost overwhelming. The only downfall was our seats. They were so tiny and close together; it felt like we were sardines. Also, we were so high, I could barely see my future husband, Drake, as we looked over the whole theater. This did not help me overcome my fear of heights at all. Although we were far away, there were speakers right next to us, so the audio made it seem like he was singing next to us. This made my heart soar.
The audience was loving and kind; everyone was sharing drinks and cigarettes as if we were all long, lost friends. When he performed, everyone sang along and danced, knowing every word just as well as myself. The ages of the audience varied from 21 to 40. I guess you can never be too old to be a Drake fan. As for the attire, my friends and I went for the "ghetto fab" look, wearing Addidas, high-waisted leggings, a tummy shirt, football jackets and snapbacks that said, "party" in pink. Everyone else seemed to follow Brooklyn attire.
Drake was a professional when it came to interacting with the audience. He brought a girl on stage and sang to her. It was mesmerizing. The whole time, I just kept screaming and wishing it was me. He kissed her right on the mouth after the song. My stomach dropped and the crowd went wild. There was one part where the stage elevated until it almost touched the ceiling and he pointed out to members of the crowd, acknowledging them for about half an hour. He'd point at someone and say, "I see you with the OVOXO shirt" or "I see you with the Yankees hat," among many other things. I thought that was unique that he took the time to make his fans feel special.
He danced and hopped all over the stage, waving his arms around and thrusting to the beat. He is an extremely expressive musician. He played all or most of the songs from his new album, which I loved, along with some of his oldies. There were some songs I wish he would have played, but I think they were so old that only the die-hard fans would have known what they were. I knew every song he sang word for word, which I'm sure genuinely annoyed everyone around me. I tended to scream the lyrics loudly and obnoxiously; I think it was due to the cranberry vodkas.
My favorite song he played was "Hold on We're Going Home." I literally cried when he sang it and imagined him singing it to me. The lyrics always cut to the core of me:
-Emily Mercado, Fall 2013
The venue was amazing. It was the biggest concert I've ever been to and will probably ever go to. The amount of floors seemed infinite and there were so many people; it was almost overwhelming. The only downfall was our seats. They were so tiny and close together; it felt like we were sardines. Also, we were so high, I could barely see my future husband, Drake, as we looked over the whole theater. This did not help me overcome my fear of heights at all. Although we were far away, there were speakers right next to us, so the audio made it seem like he was singing next to us. This made my heart soar.
The audience was loving and kind; everyone was sharing drinks and cigarettes as if we were all long, lost friends. When he performed, everyone sang along and danced, knowing every word just as well as myself. The ages of the audience varied from 21 to 40. I guess you can never be too old to be a Drake fan. As for the attire, my friends and I went for the "ghetto fab" look, wearing Addidas, high-waisted leggings, a tummy shirt, football jackets and snapbacks that said, "party" in pink. Everyone else seemed to follow Brooklyn attire.
Drake was a professional when it came to interacting with the audience. He brought a girl on stage and sang to her. It was mesmerizing. The whole time, I just kept screaming and wishing it was me. He kissed her right on the mouth after the song. My stomach dropped and the crowd went wild. There was one part where the stage elevated until it almost touched the ceiling and he pointed out to members of the crowd, acknowledging them for about half an hour. He'd point at someone and say, "I see you with the OVOXO shirt" or "I see you with the Yankees hat," among many other things. I thought that was unique that he took the time to make his fans feel special.
He danced and hopped all over the stage, waving his arms around and thrusting to the beat. He is an extremely expressive musician. He played all or most of the songs from his new album, which I loved, along with some of his oldies. There were some songs I wish he would have played, but I think they were so old that only the die-hard fans would have known what they were. I knew every song he sang word for word, which I'm sure genuinely annoyed everyone around me. I tended to scream the lyrics loudly and obnoxiously; I think it was due to the cranberry vodkas.
My favorite song he played was "Hold on We're Going Home." I literally cried when he sang it and imagined him singing it to me. The lyrics always cut to the core of me:
I got my eyes on you. You're everything that I see. I want your hot love and emotion endlessly. I can't get over you. You left your mark on me. I want your hot love and emotion endlessly. Cause you're a good girl and you know it. You act so different around me. Cause you're a good girl and you know it. I know exactly who you could be. Just hold on we're going home. It's hard to do these things alone. You're the girl. You're the one. Gave you everything I love. I think there's something, baby.As for extras in the performance, the stage was pretty wild. It was huge with a big "O" platform that lit up. The screen against the wall was gigantic and portrayed roses and fireworks and occasionally him singing. My expectations were definitely met. I think it was the best night of my life, finally achieving my life's goal. I would go every day, if I could. The best surprise was when he said, "This is the best night of my life." It was so beautiful to be able to share that with him and be a part of that. You could say I, as well as everyone else there was the reason it was the best night of his life. It was so touching. It was definitely one of the most memorable experiences of my life.
-Emily Mercado, Fall 2013
December 22, 2013
Blue Wizard/Black Wizard
St. Marks Church-in-the-Bowery hosts a really cool, offbeat performance series: Incubator Arts Series, which calendars concerts like Blue Wizard/Black Wizard. After walking the church grounds and up to the concert entrance, you are invited to choose a Wizard, or who you came to support. I had no idea I would be on a team, so this was intriguing. You are asked this by two women dressed in shiny, futuristic outfits- also intriguing. What to make of it, I wasn’t sure, but I chose blue; that part was easy. I was then given blue beads of declaration and was ushered to a particular side of the stage, which was in the shape of a star with lights surrounding it, creating an atmosphere of a discotheque. As I sat with the blue team, I couldn’t wait to find out what was to come of this, but I hoped to be fighting the good fight.
The show began with two hosts of some future time that welcomed us into their world of zany intellect, which included these two Wizards. These Wizards dueled with each other in order to determine the fate of the universe, but mostly just for fun, I think. As it turns out, these two were equal parts lovers and friends and were determining not the fate of the world, but their own fate with one another. It was sweet to see all this unfold: what began as a duel became a reconciling in the end. So, I couldn’t help but feel that we didn’t choose a fighting team of blue/black, but a friends and family team of bride/groom. We knew in the end that the future was not in their zany world of intellect, but us: those supporting a union of the two, a bride and a groom.
Overall, I loved how fun the show was and I enjoyed being in their imaginary world of games fit for all of us. The beautiful commentary to all of this was the trombonist, who seemed to be mute, so he spoke only through his instrument. With two hosts, two Wizards, and a trombonist, this world was full of dance and song, not without really tall boots and shiny, otherworldly outfits. Nehapwa!
-Sally, Winter 2013
The show began with two hosts of some future time that welcomed us into their world of zany intellect, which included these two Wizards. These Wizards dueled with each other in order to determine the fate of the universe, but mostly just for fun, I think. As it turns out, these two were equal parts lovers and friends and were determining not the fate of the world, but their own fate with one another. It was sweet to see all this unfold: what began as a duel became a reconciling in the end. So, I couldn’t help but feel that we didn’t choose a fighting team of blue/black, but a friends and family team of bride/groom. We knew in the end that the future was not in their zany world of intellect, but us: those supporting a union of the two, a bride and a groom.
Overall, I loved how fun the show was and I enjoyed being in their imaginary world of games fit for all of us. The beautiful commentary to all of this was the trombonist, who seemed to be mute, so he spoke only through his instrument. With two hosts, two Wizards, and a trombonist, this world was full of dance and song, not without really tall boots and shiny, otherworldly outfits. Nehapwa!
-Sally, Winter 2013
December 21, 2013
Stony Brook. Chamber Music Festival.
On Friday, I went to Stony Brook’s
Fall Chamber Music Festival at the Staller
Center for the Arts Recital Hall. I was surprised by how small the audience was;
there were only a dozen people, give or take. I wasn’t sure what to expect in regards
to the music, the audience or the performance, but I ended up really enjoying the
experience. Despite the room being almost empty, each performer gave their all. It
was clear to me that they weren’t performing because they needed an audience’s
attention, but they performed because they were passionate about their music. The
music played seemed to be mainly from the Romantic Period.
The first performance featured flutist, Ray Furuta, and pianist, Christina Dahl. They played Sonata “Undine” Op. 167 by Carl Reinecke. The first movement was Allegro and so it was a fast tempo and bright. The second movement was Intermezzo, which I interpreted to be fairy-like, beautiful and emotional. The third movement was Andante tranquillo, which reminded me of a love song because of the gentleness and daintiness encompassed in a call and answer style. The fourth movement was both powerful and gentle. I really enjoyed the piece because of the flutist’s passion, not to say the pianist didn’t have passion, but being a flutist myself I automatically paid more attention to him. He played passionately and sincerely, moving with the music, smiling when he wasn’t playing, and enjoying every moment of it. He was definitely in his element and it was inspiring to watch.
The second performance featured soprano, Bo-Kyung Kim, and pianist, Anna Betka. Bo-Kyung Kim walked out in a beautiful, long, white dress. She sang four songs by Claude Debussy and despite the songs being in French, I felt like I understood them because they each carried so much emotion. Bo-Kyung has a beautiful operatic and powerful voice. Each song was better than the next. Her voice was heavenly and while listening to her, I was able to forget about everything else. The beautiful dress combined with a beautiful voice came together to create a truly beautiful performance.
The third performance was 8 pieces for Clarinet, Cello, and Piano, Op. 83 by Max Bruch featuring clarinetist, Carina Canonico, cellist, Kumhee Lee, and pianist, Annie Brooks. They played the second, sixth and seventh pieces, of which the seventh, Allegro Vivace ma non troppo, was my favorite. The pieces were all different in feel, the first was a bit of call and answer, which I found to be inviting. The second piece had a winter-wonderland type feel. The last piece had a faster tempo, and a fun, prance-like feel to it, but it shifted from powerful to light in feel. I thought the performers were especially attuned to one another and the pieces chosen complemented each other. I especially love the sound of the cello, but I gained a greater appreciation for the clarinet during the performance.
The performance as a whole was a success; it was inspiring, beautiful and full of passion. I honestly would go to see a Stony Brook concert again. I was most surprised by the small size of the audience and I was pleasantly surprised by the variety of talent presented. I most enjoyed the passion of the flutist, the second performer’s beautiful operatic voice (and beautiful dress), and the calming effect of the cello in the third performance. This was a memorable experience because it reminded me of how much I enjoy music, especially live performances because while listening, the music is the only thing I feel and my mind is at peace. Without worry, I can just sit, listen, and be.
-Lisa Harbes, Winter 2013
The first performance featured flutist, Ray Furuta, and pianist, Christina Dahl. They played Sonata “Undine” Op. 167 by Carl Reinecke. The first movement was Allegro and so it was a fast tempo and bright. The second movement was Intermezzo, which I interpreted to be fairy-like, beautiful and emotional. The third movement was Andante tranquillo, which reminded me of a love song because of the gentleness and daintiness encompassed in a call and answer style. The fourth movement was both powerful and gentle. I really enjoyed the piece because of the flutist’s passion, not to say the pianist didn’t have passion, but being a flutist myself I automatically paid more attention to him. He played passionately and sincerely, moving with the music, smiling when he wasn’t playing, and enjoying every moment of it. He was definitely in his element and it was inspiring to watch.
The second performance featured soprano, Bo-Kyung Kim, and pianist, Anna Betka. Bo-Kyung Kim walked out in a beautiful, long, white dress. She sang four songs by Claude Debussy and despite the songs being in French, I felt like I understood them because they each carried so much emotion. Bo-Kyung has a beautiful operatic and powerful voice. Each song was better than the next. Her voice was heavenly and while listening to her, I was able to forget about everything else. The beautiful dress combined with a beautiful voice came together to create a truly beautiful performance.
The third performance was 8 pieces for Clarinet, Cello, and Piano, Op. 83 by Max Bruch featuring clarinetist, Carina Canonico, cellist, Kumhee Lee, and pianist, Annie Brooks. They played the second, sixth and seventh pieces, of which the seventh, Allegro Vivace ma non troppo, was my favorite. The pieces were all different in feel, the first was a bit of call and answer, which I found to be inviting. The second piece had a winter-wonderland type feel. The last piece had a faster tempo, and a fun, prance-like feel to it, but it shifted from powerful to light in feel. I thought the performers were especially attuned to one another and the pieces chosen complemented each other. I especially love the sound of the cello, but I gained a greater appreciation for the clarinet during the performance.
The performance as a whole was a success; it was inspiring, beautiful and full of passion. I honestly would go to see a Stony Brook concert again. I was most surprised by the small size of the audience and I was pleasantly surprised by the variety of talent presented. I most enjoyed the passion of the flutist, the second performer’s beautiful operatic voice (and beautiful dress), and the calming effect of the cello in the third performance. This was a memorable experience because it reminded me of how much I enjoy music, especially live performances because while listening, the music is the only thing I feel and my mind is at peace. Without worry, I can just sit, listen, and be.
-Lisa Harbes, Winter 2013
December 13, 2013
Hair: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical
During this semester, I had the pleasure of attending the musical, Hair. This production was held at the Shea Theatre on the Ammerman campus of Suffolk County Community College. It is set in 1968, during a time of war, protests, experimentation, civil rights and the peace movement. The music of the show revolves around the hippy counter culture and psychedelics of that time, and is a great example of how Rock ‘n’ Roll became big in musicals. This performance was done by twenty seven students, who were cast into the show after auditioning.
I decided to go see this show because I enjoy music theater. I feel that when you combine acting and music you get an amazing combination of emotion and expression. I was excited to see this performance for many reasons. For one, this show was put on by fellow students, some of which I personally know. I really like that I was able to support them and get such enjoyment out of their performance. Secondly, the music and theme of this musical really represents Rock ‘n’ Roll and what we are studying in class. Every song is in the Rock ’n’ Roll style and is based around the controversial topics of free love, drugs, sex, war and overall finding inner happiness and equality.
The performance space was smaller than usual theaters, mainly because it is at a college. However, I have seen shows at much smaller venues in the past and I feel this one was a happy medium. There was not one bad seat in the house; everywhere you were there was efficient viewing of the stage. The audience, while it was not sold out, was very into it and actually quite involved and very much awake. The minute I walked in to find my seat the atmosphere was warm and welcoming, almost like it was inviting you on a musical journey. Since this was a musical, the stage was pretty open and ready for dancers and actors to grace it. The band instead of being center stage like at a concert was placed stage right in their own area. Since the space was not overly large, I felt that the music really wrapped itself all the way around the theater. It seemed even more personal and brought about many different emotions. My impression of the venue was that it was kept up very nicely and it was also much nicer than I had expected.
The audience was made up of people who were excited to see the show and fans of the music in the show. Everyone dressed pretty casually as this was not a very formal event. There were some people who you could tell were dragged along or had to be there, but no matter their purpose of why they showed up, everybody left saying great things about it. When it came to the age of the audience, it ranged from young teenagers to people who grew up during the time period portrayed. Clapping ensued after every song; some of the songs and singing were so great they required loud clapping, whistles and screams. Two songs that got the most attention out of the audience were definitely “Hair” and “Let the Sunshine In.”
The three leads in this performance were done by Joe Sergio, a music theater major, who portrayed the character of Berger, a drug loving, free-spirited guy, who always sticks to his beliefs. Hailey Kinsler, a theater major, who is planning a career in acting, portrayed the character of Sheila, a passion-filled protester. Finally, Mark Maurice, also a theater major, played Claude, the guy everyone wants and loves and is Berger’s best friend; he is drafted in the Vietnam War. Also, backing these performers was an incredible ensemble, which included amazing singers and dancers. The leads and the ensemble were all very dedicated to putting on a spectacular performance. Every scene and song showed complete emotion. You could really tell that they wanted the audience to feel it rather than just hear and see it. They also sang and danced within the audience with many of its members. During the song “Ain’t Got No,” they really got the audience members into it including myself. I would give their performance as a whole a 9 out of 10. The only reason I would not rate them 10 out of 10 is because I think they had the potential to make the opening scene better than it was due to how amazing the rest of the show turned out to be.
The composer of the Love-Rock musical is Galt MacDermot; he with help from lyricists, Gerome Ragni and James Rado, really paved the way for this Broadway success. Some things that really added to this show were the dancing and lights. Since this was a musical, the dancing was just as prominent as the singing and I thought it was choreographed exceptionally well. The light show really represented the psychedelic time period they were portraying, as well as their costumes, which consisted of bell bottom pants, crop tops, tie dye and of course long hair.
The pit band of this show consisted of saxophone, trumpet, trombone, keyboard, drums, bass and guitar. The combination of the instruments and voices of these performers was excellent. I have to highlight the voices of the three main leads. Joe Sergio, while his voice not as trained or smooth had a raspy, unique timbre. Hailey Kinsler, the female lead did have a much trained, smooth, ear-pleasing voice. Finally, Mark Maurice had a clear passionate way of singing and a freedom in his performance. All the voices blended well and you could even hear a four part harmony in the song, “Electric Blues.” The vast majority of the show was up-tempo songs; however, the slow more emotion-packed songs were there as well. One of these songs was “Easy to be Hard,” where Hailey actually ended up crying while singing it. Each song represented the controversial topics they face in the show, telling a dramatic story. During the final song, the character Berger, played by Joe, belted it out so incredibly as tears filled his eyes from the pain he felt from losing his best friend to Vietnam that tears began to fill the audience. The ending to that performance was one of the best I have ever seen.
I am very pleased that I chose to do my evaluation on Suffolk County Community College’s performance of Hair. The music, performers and venue combined to make an experience that I will remember for a very long time. Music theater has a great way of sending messages and emotions through song and dance. I especially liked the involvement of the audience that occurred, and the passion you could see in the performer’s eyes. The music itself showcased great melody, dynamics, harmony and all together every other element that there is. Without a doubt, I would love to see this show again and would recommend it to anyone, who enjoys a great musical performance.
-Joanna MacMahon, Fall 2013
I decided to go see this show because I enjoy music theater. I feel that when you combine acting and music you get an amazing combination of emotion and expression. I was excited to see this performance for many reasons. For one, this show was put on by fellow students, some of which I personally know. I really like that I was able to support them and get such enjoyment out of their performance. Secondly, the music and theme of this musical really represents Rock ‘n’ Roll and what we are studying in class. Every song is in the Rock ’n’ Roll style and is based around the controversial topics of free love, drugs, sex, war and overall finding inner happiness and equality.
The performance space was smaller than usual theaters, mainly because it is at a college. However, I have seen shows at much smaller venues in the past and I feel this one was a happy medium. There was not one bad seat in the house; everywhere you were there was efficient viewing of the stage. The audience, while it was not sold out, was very into it and actually quite involved and very much awake. The minute I walked in to find my seat the atmosphere was warm and welcoming, almost like it was inviting you on a musical journey. Since this was a musical, the stage was pretty open and ready for dancers and actors to grace it. The band instead of being center stage like at a concert was placed stage right in their own area. Since the space was not overly large, I felt that the music really wrapped itself all the way around the theater. It seemed even more personal and brought about many different emotions. My impression of the venue was that it was kept up very nicely and it was also much nicer than I had expected.
The audience was made up of people who were excited to see the show and fans of the music in the show. Everyone dressed pretty casually as this was not a very formal event. There were some people who you could tell were dragged along or had to be there, but no matter their purpose of why they showed up, everybody left saying great things about it. When it came to the age of the audience, it ranged from young teenagers to people who grew up during the time period portrayed. Clapping ensued after every song; some of the songs and singing were so great they required loud clapping, whistles and screams. Two songs that got the most attention out of the audience were definitely “Hair” and “Let the Sunshine In.”
The three leads in this performance were done by Joe Sergio, a music theater major, who portrayed the character of Berger, a drug loving, free-spirited guy, who always sticks to his beliefs. Hailey Kinsler, a theater major, who is planning a career in acting, portrayed the character of Sheila, a passion-filled protester. Finally, Mark Maurice, also a theater major, played Claude, the guy everyone wants and loves and is Berger’s best friend; he is drafted in the Vietnam War. Also, backing these performers was an incredible ensemble, which included amazing singers and dancers. The leads and the ensemble were all very dedicated to putting on a spectacular performance. Every scene and song showed complete emotion. You could really tell that they wanted the audience to feel it rather than just hear and see it. They also sang and danced within the audience with many of its members. During the song “Ain’t Got No,” they really got the audience members into it including myself. I would give their performance as a whole a 9 out of 10. The only reason I would not rate them 10 out of 10 is because I think they had the potential to make the opening scene better than it was due to how amazing the rest of the show turned out to be.
The composer of the Love-Rock musical is Galt MacDermot; he with help from lyricists, Gerome Ragni and James Rado, really paved the way for this Broadway success. Some things that really added to this show were the dancing and lights. Since this was a musical, the dancing was just as prominent as the singing and I thought it was choreographed exceptionally well. The light show really represented the psychedelic time period they were portraying, as well as their costumes, which consisted of bell bottom pants, crop tops, tie dye and of course long hair.
The pit band of this show consisted of saxophone, trumpet, trombone, keyboard, drums, bass and guitar. The combination of the instruments and voices of these performers was excellent. I have to highlight the voices of the three main leads. Joe Sergio, while his voice not as trained or smooth had a raspy, unique timbre. Hailey Kinsler, the female lead did have a much trained, smooth, ear-pleasing voice. Finally, Mark Maurice had a clear passionate way of singing and a freedom in his performance. All the voices blended well and you could even hear a four part harmony in the song, “Electric Blues.” The vast majority of the show was up-tempo songs; however, the slow more emotion-packed songs were there as well. One of these songs was “Easy to be Hard,” where Hailey actually ended up crying while singing it. Each song represented the controversial topics they face in the show, telling a dramatic story. During the final song, the character Berger, played by Joe, belted it out so incredibly as tears filled his eyes from the pain he felt from losing his best friend to Vietnam that tears began to fill the audience. The ending to that performance was one of the best I have ever seen.
I am very pleased that I chose to do my evaluation on Suffolk County Community College’s performance of Hair. The music, performers and venue combined to make an experience that I will remember for a very long time. Music theater has a great way of sending messages and emotions through song and dance. I especially liked the involvement of the audience that occurred, and the passion you could see in the performer’s eyes. The music itself showcased great melody, dynamics, harmony and all together every other element that there is. Without a doubt, I would love to see this show again and would recommend it to anyone, who enjoys a great musical performance.
-Joanna MacMahon, Fall 2013
December 12, 2013
Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812
“Cant’ touch this! Doont… doont, doont. You can’t touch this,” yelled a teenage boy to a group of girls, who did the only thing nice girls can, which is to walk away. I’d like to think they were his friends and he was joking. I don’t know about the girls, but I enjoyed it: a short, unexpected performance on the streets of New York. It surprised me though because it isn’t the early 90s and I didn’t think MC Hammer could hold a candle to other rappers from that time. Surely, there are more interesting choices… The Beastie Boys? A Tribe Called Quest? But, it was a nice pre-show to the concert I planned to see and was walking to: Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812. A friend recommended the show and was also playing in it, so I went knowing it was a musical and was based on Tolstoy’s War and Peace.
Now, I’m not a reader of Russian novels and not an avid fan of musicals, but still I looked forward to the show, partly because I wanted to support my friend and I also wanted to see what all her raving was about. After the long train ride followed by a subway ride, a short walk and an unexpected street performance, I was glad to finally arrive at the Ars Nova theater. Once there, if wearing a coat, you had to go downstairs and wait in the check-your-coat line, which took you through a short maze of hallways with directions in Russian and Ars Nova workers to assist you (in case you don’t speak Russian- thank you!). The halls were decorated to look like it was under construction or with a modern DIY feel. While walking through these halls and up to the ground-level stage, I felt intrigued and very curious as to what I would find.
I was surprised when I entered a smallish room with cute, beaded lamps glowing red that cast a warm, romantic hue onto the tables-for-two scattered about the irregularly-shaped room that was enrobed with long, lush, red curtains. Since they served as walls, they united the guests with the performers and created an intimate ambiance, for which I could only guess would be the angst of love won and love lost. In any case, I was anxious to find a seat at one of the larger tables with, I hoped, friendly people who would be eager to share the experience. Luckily, I found the perfect comrade-in-concert, a composer.
As we made small talk and waited for the show to begin, we noticed two woodwind players, each in opposite corners, warming up. It was nice to hear the English Horn lull through low passages as the Clarinet ran through jazz riffs. All this was accompaniment to the serving of Vodka, the other concert warm-up. The start of the show neared as the strings joined the woodwinds, but in a third corner, to round out the sound in what was beginning to feel like a comfortable restaurant where I was a regular. Soon after, the cast filed out with plates of bread and dumplings to offer their guests of the evening- us! The offering was punctuated with a Russian salute: Nazdorovie! After mingling, audience with cast, we began to wonder: Who plays who? And, who are the characters? Is there a funny guy? Does someone fall in love? Die? Before waiting too long or getting too tipsy, the show began when the tall guy started playing the accordion and the rhythm section formed behind “the bar.” The ice had been broken.
And so it began with “The Introductions:” a raucous, joyful beginning to a mixed-genre musical. Our curiosities were answered as each character was introduced and described just enough, then the story began in full swing as the tall guy sat down at the piano to continue with its telling. I learned the story has all the essentials with its ten-member cast and six-piece band. There is young love and heart break, old love grown stale and bitter, a funny guy, parental fear and family arguments, best friends, remorse, attempted suicide, and reconciliation- whoo! And! There was an opera within the opera!
By the end of the concert, I felt tired from both tears and laughter, but I was quick to chat about it with my comrade-in-concert as I waited to congratulate my friend. We agreed that it was incredible to be immersed with the performers singing and moving all about you with the surround-sound band accompanying them from each corner. And, we agreed we would see it again in a heartbeat. I mean, there was a shoot-out! A duel!
-Anonymous, November 2012
Now, I’m not a reader of Russian novels and not an avid fan of musicals, but still I looked forward to the show, partly because I wanted to support my friend and I also wanted to see what all her raving was about. After the long train ride followed by a subway ride, a short walk and an unexpected street performance, I was glad to finally arrive at the Ars Nova theater. Once there, if wearing a coat, you had to go downstairs and wait in the check-your-coat line, which took you through a short maze of hallways with directions in Russian and Ars Nova workers to assist you (in case you don’t speak Russian- thank you!). The halls were decorated to look like it was under construction or with a modern DIY feel. While walking through these halls and up to the ground-level stage, I felt intrigued and very curious as to what I would find.
I was surprised when I entered a smallish room with cute, beaded lamps glowing red that cast a warm, romantic hue onto the tables-for-two scattered about the irregularly-shaped room that was enrobed with long, lush, red curtains. Since they served as walls, they united the guests with the performers and created an intimate ambiance, for which I could only guess would be the angst of love won and love lost. In any case, I was anxious to find a seat at one of the larger tables with, I hoped, friendly people who would be eager to share the experience. Luckily, I found the perfect comrade-in-concert, a composer.
As we made small talk and waited for the show to begin, we noticed two woodwind players, each in opposite corners, warming up. It was nice to hear the English Horn lull through low passages as the Clarinet ran through jazz riffs. All this was accompaniment to the serving of Vodka, the other concert warm-up. The start of the show neared as the strings joined the woodwinds, but in a third corner, to round out the sound in what was beginning to feel like a comfortable restaurant where I was a regular. Soon after, the cast filed out with plates of bread and dumplings to offer their guests of the evening- us! The offering was punctuated with a Russian salute: Nazdorovie! After mingling, audience with cast, we began to wonder: Who plays who? And, who are the characters? Is there a funny guy? Does someone fall in love? Die? Before waiting too long or getting too tipsy, the show began when the tall guy started playing the accordion and the rhythm section formed behind “the bar.” The ice had been broken.
And so it began with “The Introductions:” a raucous, joyful beginning to a mixed-genre musical. Our curiosities were answered as each character was introduced and described just enough, then the story began in full swing as the tall guy sat down at the piano to continue with its telling. I learned the story has all the essentials with its ten-member cast and six-piece band. There is young love and heart break, old love grown stale and bitter, a funny guy, parental fear and family arguments, best friends, remorse, attempted suicide, and reconciliation- whoo! And! There was an opera within the opera!
By the end of the concert, I felt tired from both tears and laughter, but I was quick to chat about it with my comrade-in-concert as I waited to congratulate my friend. We agreed that it was incredible to be immersed with the performers singing and moving all about you with the surround-sound band accompanying them from each corner. And, we agreed we would see it again in a heartbeat. I mean, there was a shoot-out! A duel!
-Anonymous, November 2012
December 10, 2013
we like bands like these ...
I always found it strange that they were a Christian band . . . although the songs were about love for Jesus, the kids were showing no mercy jumping around like no other.
They had a kid who knew the song on guitar come up on stage and play it with them.
The entire band froze mid song on stage for over a minute, making it look like time had stopped for them.
. . . they believed they were Led Zeppelin.
. . . the way she sounds on a CD and the way she sounded live was entirely different.
. . .the lead singer of the band came off stage and into the crowd and started hugging everybody.
He was an older gentleman with little white hair and bushy eyebrows. He had a twinkle in his eyes and everyone just loved him.
I was so proud of my friends for not backing out of the show because they were not sure if the crowd would like them.
I have been telling all my friends about this band. For once, I was the one to tell them about a band they never heard of.
. . . the five foot tall Scooby Doo stuffed animal. . . he really is the sixth member of the band.
What I fell in love with was their use of cello. It threw me off because it's not a common instrument for a band like this one to use. . . my friend and I realized half way through the band's set that we had been staring at her play the entire time. . . we looked around and everyone else was doing exactly the same thing. . . she was so interesting and really makes the band what it is.
With this band it totally changed the surroundings. . . peaceful break from what I was used to- the loud rowdy music.
-a collection from student reviews over the years
They had a kid who knew the song on guitar come up on stage and play it with them.
The entire band froze mid song on stage for over a minute, making it look like time had stopped for them.
. . . they believed they were Led Zeppelin.
. . . the way she sounds on a CD and the way she sounded live was entirely different.
. . .the lead singer of the band came off stage and into the crowd and started hugging everybody.
He was an older gentleman with little white hair and bushy eyebrows. He had a twinkle in his eyes and everyone just loved him.
I was so proud of my friends for not backing out of the show because they were not sure if the crowd would like them.
I have been telling all my friends about this band. For once, I was the one to tell them about a band they never heard of.
. . . the five foot tall Scooby Doo stuffed animal. . . he really is the sixth member of the band.
What I fell in love with was their use of cello. It threw me off because it's not a common instrument for a band like this one to use. . . my friend and I realized half way through the band's set that we had been staring at her play the entire time. . . we looked around and everyone else was doing exactly the same thing. . . she was so interesting and really makes the band what it is.
With this band it totally changed the surroundings. . . peaceful break from what I was used to- the loud rowdy music.
-a collection from student reviews over the years
we like music that ...
It uses euphemisms to explain the habits of the past: cocaine, alcoholism, and marijuana, in relation to those of today: Prozac, coffee, and donuts.
This band could create. . .wildness and maybe hate. . . the guy's adrenalin gets really high and with some songs relating to deep darkness. . . causes them to act out and fight. . . face into the concrete and blood went everywhere.
It was interesting to listen without knowing what they were singing, because it made me listen more to the sounds and not necessarily to the words.
When the drums are going it sounds like a machine gun going a mile a minute.
-a collection from student reviews over the years
SWANS
“The Swans are playing Brooklyn? Yes!” This, I respond when my friend asks if I would like to go to their show at The Music Hall of Williamsburg. Swans have impressed me for some time and since their more recent reformation in 2010, I actually have a chance to see them. Swans are difficult for me to describe especially considering that they formed during the 80s, which is ripe with overtly dancey Synth-Pop. Think Cyndi Lauper and you’ve got it wrong. Swans are dark, heavy and minimal and were part of the underground No Wave scene in Post-Punk 80s New York. Now, they are a band that has reunited with fans old and new, who are anxious to hear these veterans of the Rock world perform once again.
I wasn’t sure what to think about The Music Hall of Williamsburg. I thought that surely Swans would need a bigger venue, but ultimately I think this venue was just right for them: plenty of floor space along with a second floor balcony for late-comers or the low-key. And the sound, it was excellent! At no point was I distracted by a technical difficulty or instruments not balancing. I sat up in the balcony with my friend and was glad that people on the second floor were as into it as those closest to the stage. The audience seemed to be a wash of twenty-somethings to those in their 40s, and all were dressed pretty casually or down to earth. There was not a clear stereotype or fashion for this audience- like all black, long hair, or whatever. As I peered down from the balcony, I noticed the sea of people swaying and nodding their heads to the incessant beat. This I expect for Swans. I would be surprised, and I think a little disappointed, if a mosh pit started up or fighting ensued. I expect an audience that is completely committed to listening to the band, and not needing some other activity for entertainment or distraction.
As all eyes were on the band, they played and played for hours. The lead singer, Michael Gira, didn’t say a whole lot except to thank everyone for coming. Other than that, they simply just played. Some of their songs can be 20-30 minutes long. So, a concert with only a handful of songs can last well into the night, as this one did. With minimal dancing or movement from the band, who dresses actually pretty nicely for this kind of music, with Michael Gira in all black as he seems to dress for performances (from what I’ve seen on YouTube) and the others a mix of half dressed to nice button ups. The music can speak for itself and is played without the assistance of light shows, theatrics or costumes. There is no video even, which makes it feel pretty low tech in a way, even though the instruments are heavily mic’d and amped with a variety of pedals. Even the bass drum was mic’d! And I mean a classical bass drum not the kick drum on the drumset.
For me, the drummer was the star of the show. Normally, I think all eyes are on the lead singer in a rock band, but what I heard in the live show was this really thick guitar-and-bass mass of sound with drums the only force that could penetrate that mass. Vocals were accompaniment to that most of the time. What was exceptional was the beginning of the song, “Coward.” The drums and bass started as a duo with a really clean, punchy riff that, for as heavy as their sound was, seemed to pop out and sound clean and catchy. This continued for a long time, so what started as accessible is beaten into the ground with the other instruments joining over time- very synchronized and thick. Eventually, Gira joins and the lyrics are dark and twisted, with Gira just shouting rhythmic outbursts at times: “Coward… Put your knife in me…“ This song, more than the others, seemed to pulse the walls and get into your body. It’s a song from their 1986 album, Holy Money. It seems to be a fan favorite as many people began to move more immediately upon hearing it. I think it captures their sound the best, since it is dark and minimal, and yet seems to be open to improvisation for a live performance.
For a live Rock performance, Swans were incredible. I can’t say that I was surprised, but I did think that they were really, really good. For a few hours, they created a sound world that the audience was immersed in. That’s how it felt to me; that we were part of the sound- one unit. I really enjoyed their playing and felt that they were really into their music. It’s interesting to me as a classical player to hear a metal band that performs much like a Classical ensemble with lots of discreet cueing while playing, great execution, very little crowd banter, no gratuitous distractions with bowing at the end. All the while, they were still very “into” what they were doing. This I found refreshing, would most definitely see them again, and enjoyed listening/watching with a good friend.
-Anonymous, February 2013
I wasn’t sure what to think about The Music Hall of Williamsburg. I thought that surely Swans would need a bigger venue, but ultimately I think this venue was just right for them: plenty of floor space along with a second floor balcony for late-comers or the low-key. And the sound, it was excellent! At no point was I distracted by a technical difficulty or instruments not balancing. I sat up in the balcony with my friend and was glad that people on the second floor were as into it as those closest to the stage. The audience seemed to be a wash of twenty-somethings to those in their 40s, and all were dressed pretty casually or down to earth. There was not a clear stereotype or fashion for this audience- like all black, long hair, or whatever. As I peered down from the balcony, I noticed the sea of people swaying and nodding their heads to the incessant beat. This I expect for Swans. I would be surprised, and I think a little disappointed, if a mosh pit started up or fighting ensued. I expect an audience that is completely committed to listening to the band, and not needing some other activity for entertainment or distraction.
As all eyes were on the band, they played and played for hours. The lead singer, Michael Gira, didn’t say a whole lot except to thank everyone for coming. Other than that, they simply just played. Some of their songs can be 20-30 minutes long. So, a concert with only a handful of songs can last well into the night, as this one did. With minimal dancing or movement from the band, who dresses actually pretty nicely for this kind of music, with Michael Gira in all black as he seems to dress for performances (from what I’ve seen on YouTube) and the others a mix of half dressed to nice button ups. The music can speak for itself and is played without the assistance of light shows, theatrics or costumes. There is no video even, which makes it feel pretty low tech in a way, even though the instruments are heavily mic’d and amped with a variety of pedals. Even the bass drum was mic’d! And I mean a classical bass drum not the kick drum on the drumset.
For me, the drummer was the star of the show. Normally, I think all eyes are on the lead singer in a rock band, but what I heard in the live show was this really thick guitar-and-bass mass of sound with drums the only force that could penetrate that mass. Vocals were accompaniment to that most of the time. What was exceptional was the beginning of the song, “Coward.” The drums and bass started as a duo with a really clean, punchy riff that, for as heavy as their sound was, seemed to pop out and sound clean and catchy. This continued for a long time, so what started as accessible is beaten into the ground with the other instruments joining over time- very synchronized and thick. Eventually, Gira joins and the lyrics are dark and twisted, with Gira just shouting rhythmic outbursts at times: “Coward… Put your knife in me…“ This song, more than the others, seemed to pulse the walls and get into your body. It’s a song from their 1986 album, Holy Money. It seems to be a fan favorite as many people began to move more immediately upon hearing it. I think it captures their sound the best, since it is dark and minimal, and yet seems to be open to improvisation for a live performance.
For a live Rock performance, Swans were incredible. I can’t say that I was surprised, but I did think that they were really, really good. For a few hours, they created a sound world that the audience was immersed in. That’s how it felt to me; that we were part of the sound- one unit. I really enjoyed their playing and felt that they were really into their music. It’s interesting to me as a classical player to hear a metal band that performs much like a Classical ensemble with lots of discreet cueing while playing, great execution, very little crowd banter, no gratuitous distractions with bowing at the end. All the while, they were still very “into” what they were doing. This I found refreshing, would most definitely see them again, and enjoyed listening/watching with a good friend.
-Anonymous, February 2013
We live here because
of concerts like these ...
It felt more intimate than seeing a concert at a huge hall because I was very close to where the music was coming from. It made you feel like you were almost a part of the act. I like that part the best.
The mosh pit was one of the worst I was ever in . . . people weren't just pushing and shoving, you had big haymakers coming at you. I was hit in the face a couple of times and ended up knocking somebody out too while I was in the pit.
Everybody always wants a good view, right under the singer's nose.
I'd have to say this was a relatively calm show for me because usually someone's bleeding during intermission. However, it was fun to watch the only two people dancing . . .
Hundreds of people come, pitch a lawn chair or blanket and listen to the music . . . I always joke that it was my version of Woodstock.
If you have ever been there on a Friday or Saturday night, you'd know that it's also the hang out spot for the not-so-cool kids.
At the end of the song, there is a famous "behind the masses" sing-along and when it came time for it. . .I sang, a group of people piled on top of me, they sang too.
I felt like a fish out of water with my American Eagle outfit and make up that wasn't hot pink and out of control.
Since I'm not from here, it made me go out and be with other people I don't know.
. . . it gets sort of dangerous. . . they run around kicking and swinging their arms around.
One good thing about the admission was there was a small buffet of food that was included. The food wasn't that good or warm but it was free so I won't really complain about it too much.
-a collection from student reviews over the years
It felt more intimate than seeing a concert at a huge hall because I was very close to where the music was coming from. It made you feel like you were almost a part of the act. I like that part the best.
The mosh pit was one of the worst I was ever in . . . people weren't just pushing and shoving, you had big haymakers coming at you. I was hit in the face a couple of times and ended up knocking somebody out too while I was in the pit.
Everybody always wants a good view, right under the singer's nose.
I'd have to say this was a relatively calm show for me because usually someone's bleeding during intermission. However, it was fun to watch the only two people dancing . . .
Hundreds of people come, pitch a lawn chair or blanket and listen to the music . . . I always joke that it was my version of Woodstock.
If you have ever been there on a Friday or Saturday night, you'd know that it's also the hang out spot for the not-so-cool kids.
At the end of the song, there is a famous "behind the masses" sing-along and when it came time for it. . .I sang, a group of people piled on top of me, they sang too.
I felt like a fish out of water with my American Eagle outfit and make up that wasn't hot pink and out of control.
Since I'm not from here, it made me go out and be with other people I don't know.
. . . it gets sort of dangerous. . . they run around kicking and swinging their arms around.
One good thing about the admission was there was a small buffet of food that was included. The food wasn't that good or warm but it was free so I won't really complain about it too much.
-a collection from student reviews over the years
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