In Search of the Lost Melody
In the old days, a song meant a melody. A melody is a sequence of notes with a beginning, middle and end. It is constructed from phrases, not simply a phrase repeated over and over. It is not a sequence of sounds, sound effects, or random noises. It is not a series of screeches or unintelligible monologue. It is a series of musical notes with meaning. In the old days, songs were song or played on a melodic instrument, like flute or fiddle. They may or may not have been accompanied by strums on a harp, guitar, or something similar. If they were rhythmic, they might be accompanied by tapping or...
Read MoreWhat Is a “Timeless Melody?”
The magic of music is the melody. It always amazes me that a simple string of notes can pack such power. Let's see if we can identify some criteria that define a great melody:
Read MoreInsights on Musicianship and Life
One of the most perplexing contradictions facing the musician is this: in order to play or sing properly, the musician must be perfectly relaxed. The vocalist must relax the vocal cords, the violinist must relax his arms and wrists, etc. On the other hand, the music he plays is often dynamic and emotional, requiring pressure, tension, etc. How does he remain physically relaxed and intellectually focused while still expressing feelings which are anything but relaxed? I think this seeming contradiction gives us a great inspiration for life in general, especially for the religious musician. On...
Read MoreWhat Makes Music Jewish?
This article attempts to deal with that classic question, what is Jewish music? Here I present my own spin on the issue, boiling it down to three criteria that must be met for music to deserve the title of “Jewish music.” Check it out here.
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