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Britten's Midsummer's Night, 2007.
This paper discusses the opera 'Midsummer Night's Dream' by Benjamin Britten.
986 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 35.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that Benjamin Britten obtained the plot for the opera, "Midsummer Night's Dream", from Shakespeare's play by the same name. The writer relates that in 1960 Britten, along with his companion, Peter Pears, presented it as a showpiece for friends and for a wide variety of talents. The writer points out that the opera contains a largely spoken, theatrical part, a boy's soprano choir, a large fairy who sings coloratura, a simple country bumpkin named Bottom whose head is turned into an ass' head by Puck and romantic subplots. The writer maintains that the opera is humorous and lyrical and a treat for the musical ear. The writer concludes that in this opera, the audience falls in love with Puck and with the fairies, as if the love-juice had been put on their own eyes.
From the Paper
"Britten starts the opera in what was the second act of Shakespeare's play, but refers to what happened, so the audience does not feel anything is missing. The rustic folk, the fairies and the lovers are first presented in the woods around Athens and from there on the action never stops. The lead role of Oberon is sung by a countertenor, which is very rare, as leads are usually sung by tenors or basses. As the fairies appear, the well-known song, "Over hill, over dale" is heard, sung by Tytania's young boys' fairy choir. The strange relationship of Tytania and Bottom is the central romantic story that Britten chose to make the centerpiece of the opera. The dominating female fairy has a very difficult role to play, as she is attracted to Bottom, but is subject to Oberon and his accomplice, Puck, who make her life very difficult and her music hard to sing."
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Baroque Vs. Classical Music, 2007.
This paper discusses and contrasts the Baroque style versus the Classical style of music.
766 words (approx. 3.1 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 27.95
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Abstract
The paper examines differences in the Baroque and the Classical music styles. The paper looks at the melody, rhythm, harmony, texture, form and dynamics of both styles. The paper discusses the Sonata Allegro form and what types of works commonly use this form. The paper discusses the music of Mozart and relates that he is often seen as a bridge between the Baroque and the Classical eras.
From the Paper
"In contrast to Classical music, Baroque music primarily tries to create a feeling of continuity rather than tell a story through a developing, evolving, or shifting use of melody. In Baroque pieces, the opening melody will be heard over and over again in the course of the piece. Many Baroque melodies are quite ornamental and elaborate while Classical melodies are much less adorned, and much easier to play and to remember ("Characteristics of Baroque Music," Thinkquest.org, 2007; "Characteristics of Baroque Music," Thinkquest.org, 2007). This greater simplicity allowed Classical composers to play with the use melody more within the different movements of the piece."
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Romanticism, 2007.
A discussion of romanticism, explaining that it is the artistic movement that appeared as a reaction against the rationalism,.
3,376 words (approx. 13.5 pages), 11 sources, APA, $ 96.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews and discusses romanticism. The paper takes a look at the art, music and poetry that emerged during the romantic era. The paper describes its history, the main elements of romanticism and how it differed in different countries. The paper then goes on to discuss political romanticism.
From the Paper
"The romantic musicians found their muse of inspiration in literary works, paintings, and other art sources. Therefore, they believed in the same art values, like freedom of form, peculiar vibration of feelings, impulsive reactions, uniqueness, etc. As literary works reveal solitary characters to bear the imprint of emotional experience, music reveals instruments that have exactly the same role as characters in literature. They create the emotional values. The French composer Hector Berlioz and the Hungarian musician Franz Liszt had the roots of their inspiration in literature. Plenty of music works were created in the 19th century. The most known and successful ones are written by Schubert, Johannes Brahms, Hugo Wolf, Robert Schumann, and Richard Strauss. Abstract music was expressed in chamber music and symphonies. In this respect, there are plenty of composers who may be given as example. Musicians like Schubert, Schumann, Brahms, Tchaikovsky were the most important as they tried new free form music, adapted for the piano, mostly."
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Music Therapy, 2007.
This paper discusses music therapy and looks at the power of music in helping individuals.
2,409 words (approx. 9.6 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 73.95
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Abstract
In this essay, the writer discusses that since humans first walked on the earth, they have used music as a way of gaining inner peace, solitude and pleasure. The writer points out that with voice alone or musical instruments, with friends and family and small groups and large, music has been an important part of human societies throughout the world. Music connects with the inner self. It provokes emotional response, or it reduces it. The writer notes that it is not surprising, then, that modern-day therapists use music as part of their treatment for social or emotional problems for the youngest child to older adults. Music therapy is as old as the beginning of humankind, itself. The writer concludes that it is only recently that it is finally being recognized for the power and importance it plays in helping individuals of all ages, backgrounds and mental, physical and spiritual needs.
From the Paper
"Although music therapy has only recently been designated as a profession, it goes back to the earliest of times. At the beginning of the 19th century, William B. Davis reported on the activities of The Guild of St Cecilia, established in 1891 by the musician Canon Harford, which played calming music to a large number of patients in London hospitals. Unfortunately, the Guild was closed due to criticism from the musical and medical press, lack of funds and Harford's illness. Davis also noted that a number of similar organizations were founded in the United States during the early 20th century. However, they also did not last long."
"During World War II, there was an increasing interest in using music as a therapy for soldiers who were returning home in mental or physical pain. Hospitals and physicians increasingly began to use music and asked musicians for research that would indicate the therapeutic value. Musicians, however, did not have the academic background for such research."
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Hip-Hop, 2007.
This paper discusses the social-cultural-musical phenomenon called Hip-Hop. circa 1965 to 1985.
1,830 words (approx. 7.3 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 58.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the post-civil rights and black power groups, who witnessed so many radical social changes, provided the attitude and style that gave birth to Hip-Hop. The author points out that MCs (emcees), DJs (deejays), break dancing and graffiti art are considered to be the roots of the movement that empowered urban youths to use music, dance and other forms of artistic expression to describe life as they saw it. The paper stresses that, when listening to today's Hip-Hop and R&B, it is important to remember that many artists from the 1990s, who are still around, do not consider today's Hip-Hip as "tru Hip-Hop".
Table of Contents:
What is Hip-Hop?
Roots of Hip-Hop Culture
Creativity
Bling-Bling?
Wrapping It Up
From the Paper
"Depending on who was the first to be commercialized, one thing that will always be argued is that once Hip-Hop was made into a commodity it needed to be mass-produced. From the top, Hip-Hop artists would sign onto independent labels only because the owners were willing to take a risk. No major record label wanted to sign an artist who could only reach a certain group or community and when signing an artist, companies want to make sure that the artist would be able to sell records to all of America and not just the inner city suburbs."
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Beethoven and his Symphonies, 2007.
This paper provides a discussion of Ludwig Van Beethoven's life and his famous nine symphonies.
1,734 words (approx. 6.9 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 56.95
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Abstract
The paper reveals that many consider Beethoven to be the greatest composer in the Western music tradition. The paper discusses Beethoven's earlier and later years and describes his famous nine symphonies.
Outline:
Early Life
First Works
Leaves for Vienna
Struggles with Deafness
Last Days
Symphony No. 1
Symphony No. 2
Symphony No. 3
Symphony No. 4
Symphony No. 5
Symphony No. 6
Symphony No. 7
Symphony No. 8
Symphony No. 9
From the Paper
"Beethoven (1770-1827) is considered by many as the greatest composer in the Western music tradition. His stature among music composers is such that his name is familiar even to people who do not listen to classical music, while he is also held in the highest esteem by the most discerning connoisseurs of Western classical music. The wide range of his music composition encompasses a variety of genres, including symphonies, concertos, sonatas, string quartets, chamber music and opera, forming a bridge between the classical and romantic eras of musical history."
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Andrew Lloyd Webber, 2007.
This paper looks at Andrew Lloyd Webber as an original showman and provides a personal and professional biography.
1,190 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 40.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer looks at Andrew Lloyd Webber's beginnings and discusses how he began his successful career in musicals. Love him or hate him, the writer points out that no critic can deny that he has composed some of the most memorable music of the latter half of the 20th century. The writer notes that his influence continues to be felt today. Further, the writer points out that Lloyd Webber continues to write, compose, and run the Really Useful Theater Company, and his songs and productions are still heard and seen around the world. The writer concludes that for Webber, star quality and staying power mean staying true to your initial vision and Webber's prime motivations have always been populism and the unabashed pursuit of profits.
From the Paper
"For all of his extravagant visions for the theater, Andrew Lloyd Webber was born to humble beginnings on March 22, 1948. His parents lived in South Kensington, England. His father, William Southcombe Lloyd Webber, was a professor of music theory at Royal College of Music in England. His mother, Jean, was a singer and violinist. Unsurprisingly, with these beginnings, young Andrew showed an early love and aptitude for music. Andrew was an undoubted musical prodigy. At only three years old, he played violin and at six he composed his first songs."
"These were not simply the jottings of an amateur, however. At the tender age of nine he had his first piece of music published. But it was Andrew's aunt who first ignited the young boy's interest in stage musicals."
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Digital Rights Management, 2007.
This paper discusses digital rights management (DRM), a method of protecting copyrighted material.
4,269 words (approx. 17.1 pages), 15 sources, MLA, $ 113.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses that a major battle is under way over the issue of DRM, a technological fix imposed by major corporations to protect their software. The writer notes that the development of the Internet and all computer technology has altered the normal relationship between the producers and creators of music, films and even computer software and the consumer to such a degree that the corporations that control these products have sought ways of restoring the balance in their favor. The writer points out that DRM is one such method of protecting copyrighted material from digital copying and transmission. The writer concludes that most content producers are behind the curve on the use of technology for their benefit, and DRM only puts them further behind while harming the consumer and creating unnecessary ill will.
Outline:
Introduction
DRM
Copyright
File Sharing Services
Future Concerns
Effects
The Consumer
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Digital Rights Management refers to coders and the like that are embedded in CDs and films to prevent consumers from copying music or films and from disseminating these products over the Internet. It also refers to the way music sold online is coded so it cannot be transferred to a different computer and may not be able to be played more than a certain number of times before it degrades. DRM might be one sort of protection when it is announced so that the consumer knows what he or she is purchasing and knows the limitations being placed on the purchase. It is quite another thing when DRM is embedded secretly so that the consumer does not know about these limitations. The latter was part of the problem with certain CDs sold by Sony a few years ago, and the DRM interfered even with normal play on some computers."
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Music and Intelligence, 2007.
This paper explores the impact of music on child development.
1,987 words (approx. 7.9 pages), 20 sources, MLA, $ 63.95
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Abstract
The paper notes the controversy about the impact of music on intelligence but discusses how studies shows that music has other positive impacts on infants and young children. The paper explores the researched effects of music on fetuses, newborns and children.
From the Paper
"The actual research evidence on music and the baby brain is very limited. Whether or not there is a "Mozart effect" is debatable. Harvard University researchers Ellen Winner and Lois Hetland cautioned in 1999, for example: "Since 1997, we have been analyzing the research relevant to the claim that the arts lead to academic success. So far we have found no actual scientific evidence on the effect of music on infant brain development and subsequent school success." Even the original researchers at UCLA state that Tomatis did not report their findings accurately."
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Risk Management and a Music Festival, 2007.
An analysis of corporate risk management of a pop music festival.
2,987 words (approx. 11.9 pages), 2 sources, APA, $ 88.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes the risks involved in a municipality sponsoring a pop concert. It is organized into three parts in order to describe the precise risks and necessary management measures involved. Firstly, the precise details of the risks are described. Secondly, a plan is described for the mitigation of risks before, during and after the event. Thirdly, conclusions and recommendations are offered in terms of risk management.
Outline:
Introduction
Corporate Risks
Program of Action
Before the Event
During the Event
After the Event
Conclusions and Recommendations
From the Paper
" During the event, the organizer's reputation may be damaged by a number of factors associated with the nature of the event and its attendees. The noise level may for example damage the reputation of the organizers in terms of maintaining the peace in the neighborhood. Because a large number of attendees are expected, it is also expected that the music presentations will have to be loud in order to be audible to the entire crowd. Furthermore, it is also expected that the crowd will produce a high level of noise. This could be perceived as a bad influence on the community and carry with it an unfavorable impression in the eyes of the community."
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Therapeutic Effects of Music, 2007.
A discussion of the therapeutic effect of classical music.
1,120 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 38.95
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Abstract
This paper describes the author's experience of attending a classical music concert and the emotions that were felt from listening to the music. The author gives a background of the orchestra that played, then explores the impact and influence of music on its listeners and its therapeutic effects as well. The paper concludes with a discusison of how classical music appreciation is becoming more widespread.
From the Paper
"The concept of music as therapy is a very mainstream idea, however, very few people really understand the nuances of musical therapy. People tend to think that any type of background music will cause them to become calm and focused, receiving the therapeutic effects of music. Quite to the contrary Dr. Oliver Sacks, a neurologist writes that there is a strong difference between recreational music and therapeutic music. He explains, "the power of music to integrate and cure is quite fundamental. It is the profoundest non-chemical medication" (Sacks, npg). The beauty of music in general is that music is very easily absorbed by our minds. Since it is such an easy integrating method with our brains, we can achieve a sense of greater peace and tranquility when fully concentrating on music. At the core level, classical music is one of the strongest therapeutic musical mediums. This is because the therapeutic affect of music can be strongly attributed to the natural phenomenon of entrainment through rhythm. The concept of entrainment is to synchronize with something or someone, in both positive and negative ways. The effect of classical music as therapy is multifold, it is both psychological as well as physical. Sound is a physical force and part of the affect of classical music is to use the combination of mental and physical sensations caused by the music. As a result, classical music such Mozart's no. 23 Concerto affect not only the mind, but also how the immune system reacts. Music is entrenched in such a way that it becomes catalysts for emotional and mood adjuster, precisely because it uses physical sensation as a trigger for emotions and thoughts."
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Elvis and Black Music, 2007.
This paper looks at the influence of black music and culture on Elvis Presley.
3,985 words (approx. 15.9 pages), 15 sources, APA, $ 108.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that in order to examine the genuine roots of Elvis's music and its close connection to African-American musical traditions, several areas must be explored. First the writer provides a closer look at the black musical tradition of Elvis's own period. The writer then offers an examination of musical blending of these various strains and influences that occurred within Elvis's early career and lifetime. The writer analyzes Elvis's childhood and the influence of black musical traditions upon his later music. Finally, this essay offers analysis of his actual musical contributions and legacy to black Southern culture, the growing civil rights movement of his day, and mainstream American culture in general, then and now.
From the Paper
"However many black musical; cultural, and other historians claim that Elvis's theft of their musical tradition is the epitome of the racism inherent within that era. The whole Elvis phenomenon in rock'n roll music yesterday and today only serves to further underscore, they contend, the foul way so many black writers and performers, such as Little Richard, were treated by the music industry in Elvis's own heyday. The enduring image of Elvis is a constant reflection of
Society's then-refusal to accept anything other than the non-threatening and subservient Negro. The legacy of Elvis as King of Rock and Roll has to be re-examined, those critics suggest, especially in the wake of better and more accurate scrutiny nowadays of the true origins of rock 'roll. These stem from deep African American musical traditions in blues and gospel music. Elvis himself admitted that his music is heavily influenced by the gospel of his childhood."
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Rap Music, 2007.
A discussion of the background of gospel and rap music.
2,285 words (approx. 9.1 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 70.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the rise of rap music from its beginnings to its current broad appeal. The paper also gives a background of black gospel music, describing its history and popularity. The author then turns back to rap music, citing a study about who listens to rap and what the audience's opinions are on specific social issues that they feel are addressed through this genre of music. The paper also denounces several myths about rap and its lyrics. Finally, the paper explores whether whites who listen to rap may be less racist. The paper includes a questionnaire about rap music.
From the Paper
" Although rap is presently receiving a great deal of notoriety, black music has long been a part of American culture. Gospel music, for example, has defined black identity for generations and continues to do so. "Black gospel music is one of the new seminal genres of contemporary black culture which continually maintains its self-identity while it nourishes and enriches the mainstream of the world's cultural sources" (William-Jones 373). Black gospel music, a combination of West African and Afro-American music, dance, poetry and drama, includes contemporary black religious music of rural folk origins that celebrates the Christian experience of salvation and hope (William-Jones 376). For much of its 50 years as an underground form of music, gospel still remains among the least known or understood of many black cultural expressions today."
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Propaganda in Popular Music, 2007.
This paper examines how propaganda and mass persuasion exist in pop music.
1,515 words (approx. 6.1 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 49.95
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Abstract
The paper relates that propaganda and mass persuasion are present in all forms of media, including pop music. The paper looks at the history of propaganda, mass media and pop music and shows how and why mass persuasion exists in pop music. The paper also identifies those who listen to pop music and why they are attracted to it. The paper discusses how by limiting media exposure and being aware of media techniques used to brand and market pop stars, we can make educated choices.
From the Paper
"Propaganda is the mass persuasion of people. Often used for political gains or simply to make an individual more popular or blameless, propaganda has a history as long as humanity. Modern propaganda, however, is different. Modern propaganda, aided by technology, has allowed for mass communication and, in turn, mass propaganda. Larson cites the communications researcher Jaques Ellul, who identifies the characteristics of modern propaganda: it happens in industrialized and "depersonalized" societies; it works through forcing individuals into masses while also isolating them as individual people; and it exists to integrate people into a common way of thinking rather than agitating them to action."
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Gangsta Rap Music, 2007.
This paper discusses gangsta rap music and violence towards women.
1,396 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 46.95
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Abstract
In this article the writer notes that the term gangsta rap began its rise to popularity when the controversial single "Gangsta, Gangsta" by N.W.A. (Niggaz with Attitude) hit the Billboard's Hot Rap Singles chart. The writer explains that rap music is an expression of minorities' frustration with poverty, drugs, and sexual harassment, yet some includes explicit lyrics about violence and sexual abuse that many critics believe can easily mislead impressionable teens who are the main patrons of this type of music The writer maintains that gangsta rap music is essentially the vocalization of sentiments that have lived long within the political environment of the African-American community. The writer concludes that to feel empowered, African- American males attempt to keep women subordinate.
From the Paper
"African American men have historically enabled themselves with the power and authority to determine the black political agenda, and have consistently abused that power and defined the boundaries of the imagined black nation in terms of a sexual politics that institutionalized male domination and the subordination of the feminine. For example, Alexander Crummell suggested that one of African American women's main political duties was to protect their virtue and maintain sexual purity, and Stokely Carmichael asserted that the only position for women in his movement was prone."
"Ice Cube held women and gay men in contempt in "Amerikkka's Most Wanted," and in particular the fictional violence against women, with lyics such as "bitch-killah" in "The Nigga Ya Love to Hate," and the misogynistic "You Can't Fade Me," which is a venomous mother's -baby-father's-maybe tale that concludes with a murderous fantasy."
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"Imagine", 2007.
This paper analyzes the song "Imagine" by John Lennon.
1,016 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 35.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses the imagery, metaphor, sound, tone and words used in the song. The paper discusses how John Lennon's song about world peace represents his own hopes and dreams for the future and hope for all humanity. The paper explains that Lennon captured the essence of the peace movement in the 1960s and 1970s in the song. The paper reveals that it remains one of his most enduring and best-loved songs.
From the Paper
""Imagine" is full of vivid imagery. Lennon wants the listener to imagine a better world, and the words bring out that image in the mind. He writes, "Imagine there's no countries / It isn't hard to do / Nothing to kill or die for / And no religion too / Imagine all the people / Living life in peace..." (Lennon). The imagery of the poem is in its ability to allow the listener to imagine and visualize these things, and what they would mean for the world. If all the people could "live life in peace," life would be much different for a majority of people in the world. Imagine what that would be like, to have true peace around the globe. It is a tantalizing picture, and a vivid image that the song brings to mind."
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Elvis Presley, 2007.
An analysis of the influence that Elvis Presley had on American culture.
1,597 words (approx. 6.4 pages), 10 sources, APA, $ 52.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the legacy of Elvis Presley, the "King of Rock." It specifically focuses on three areas of American culture upon which he had a tremendous influence. The paper discusses his exposure of African-American musicians to the white, American public, his role in influencing a liberalization of American culture, which allowed other cultural icons to succeed and the awareness he created of the perils of drug addiction through his premature death.
Table of Contents:
Presley Opens Doors For African American Musicians
Presley Helps Liberalize American Culture
Drug Addiction
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Culture critic David Marsh once wrote that "Unless you understand that Elvis Presley was more than anything a spiritual leader of our generation, there's really no way to assess his importance, much less the meaning of his music."20 Indeed, Presley's impact on American culture was transformative. Through his music, which was heavily influenced by black artists, he exposed white America to a new group of performers. By testing social boundaries, such as how America perceived sexuality, he helped liberalize American culture, opening new avenues of discussion and launching new trends in music. Finally, through Presley's tragic and untimely death, he allowed America to have a serious discussion on the perils of drug abuse and how, if left unchecked, it can threaten the lives of even our most valued national treasures."
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Music: A Connection to the Divine, 2007.
This paper discusses music as a connection to the Divine, by looking at "Paradise" by Aligheri Dante and "The River Sutra" by Gita Mehta.
2,120 words (approx. 8.5 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 66.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer maintains that one could say that the written and spoken word describe the foreseen and that music describes the unforeseen. This relationship between music and spirituality is explored using two famous works. The first, Dante's "Paradise", is from Western culture and the other, "The River Sutra" by Gita Mehta, is from Eastern culture. The writer explains that both of these works describe a spiritual journey into the unknown. The writer notes that music is used to reference that which cannot be truly described using words alone. The essay supports the thesis that music is used as a means to connect the reader to the spiritual world in these two works. The writer concludes that one can learn much about the spiritual worlds of the East and West by examining the use of music in their works.
Outline:
Dante and Signaling the Eternal
The Boy Singer and the Path to Enlightenment
The Musician's Story
Transcendence
Works Cited
From the Paper
"Dante uses music to announce a holy event of great importance. The appearance of the divine is often signaled by music. One might notice that it is never Dante himself who is singing or making music, although in the opening Canto he does refer to his work as his song. Song and music are used to signal the appearance of the divine. Dante uses the imagery of music sparingly. Only a few of the heavenly beings that he encounters are heralded by song."
"Structurally, the appearance of music is carefully placed in such a way to give it an even greater meaning of importance. Paradise, like hell, is comprised of layers. Just as the layers in Hell become increasingly more evil, the three layers of heaven become more divine. One might notice that music is hardly mentioned in the first two Cantos, except when referring to his work as his song. When we examine the use of music in the remainder of the piece, this two may have been purposeful and an attempt to attach importance to the work itself."
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