MUSICAL BREAK!

I am sitting here listening to music by Alternative Quartet.  I find this particular group to be very eclectic in terms of their style of play.  Their instruments project a contemporary flavor that I find to be visually delicious. I like the designs of the instruments because they speak of a freedom that is not easily associated with classically trained musicians.  


You Tube has a nice sample of this quartet's recorded works.  This group works as a unit and also as collaborators with other musicians.  


The Goat Rodeo Sessions is an ambitious and groundbreaking project that brings together four string virtuosos: world-renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma, fiddler Stuart Duncan, bassist Edgar Meyer and mandolinist Chris Thile. These artists -- each prominent figures in the music space independently -- have come together as a unique ensemble for this project. The music, including two tracks with female vocalist Aoife O'Donovan, crosses several different genres. (You Tube Notes)

The music is improvised by this quartet. The term goat rodeo is basically an event in which action begins and it is built upon. The trick is knowing when to begin and come to an end.  I have been taught to listen to all different types of music so the blue grass sound does not throw me off as a listener. I think that we should teach people to listen to all types of music and not box up listening opportunities that are satisfying.  My grandfather could play songs from the European culture because he worked weddings and other celebrations.  This video features a live performance of the songs that came out of the original session. You may not like the total package, but it is worth taking a listen to because of the caliber of the musicians who are playing these songs.  This is a select group of individuals in today's digital society.  They can actually play, read and produce music from their knowledge base and deliver an outstanding live performance of their work. 

I have had people question what is the draw for me to listen to different types of music?  It is just my basic human curiosity at work.  I borrow a lot of music from the library to listen to.  What I like becomes a part of my media library.  I have made some of my favorite music discoveries by simply picking up a CD to take home. My library drives the average pop culture listening nuts.  I like a mix of sounds and diversity is definitely a part of my selections.