Random Thoughts December 12, 2008

My dictionary defines the word chaos as “utter confusion.” It has yet to be proven that chaos even exists in the universe. If everything can be represented through numbers and mathematics, then everything has an order to it. Everything that exists and everything that happens is formulaic. Everything that happens is for a reason. Reason and logic can be represented mathematically. So if chaos does not really exist in the universe, how could it exist in art?

If a child scribbles lines on a paper, it is said to be a totally random act, that has no merit for analysis and was done without any preconception or thought. This would not be a correct assumption. The child was thinking when he/she scribbled on the paper, so the lines in some way represent the child’s thoughts consciously or sub-consciously. Another myth is that the act of war creates chaos. Although the repercussions of a military invasion or attack on a city may seem chaotic, actually it is not. The invasion was carefully plotted out and analyzed by military personnel. The people who planned the attack developed complex scenarios that were explored before the attack was implemented. The military chose the outcome that they wanted, and hoped for the best (or worst). The situation that appears to be chaotic is the aftermath. The aftermath is simply a consequence, or the end result of the attack or invasion. The violence and suffering is thought out in advance. The victims may think there is chaos, but the so-called chaos was actually planned.

In art, chaos does not exist either. There have been many art movements and artists who attempted to represent it, but because it does not exist, they have not succeeded. The most beautiful art can be described in two words. Simple order. Art that is orderly and simple is also the hardest to design. Look at music for instance. What is more appealing to most people’s ears? Complex prog rock, or a three chord ballad? Most people would respond better to the 3 chord ballad. Complex prog or “math rock” may appeal to some, but not most. Besides, even that must be programmed to a pattern, it is just more complex. It is also easier to create because it gives the songwriter more options. Because he has more chords to work with, there are also less rules or instructions he must follow. The instructions or musical theory he is using to compose his song is much more open. He is not so rigidly tied down. Because he has more input, he can make the song any way he likes, as long as it follows a pattern. If it did not follow a pattern, it would not be a song. It need not sound a certain way. A three chord ballad has far more rules and instructions for composition. It is essentially a formula. When one must create within the constraints of a mathematical formula using a limited amount of numbers it becomes more difficult. It offers less artistic freedom, and is more like a puzzle.

Are You Musically Inclined? December 10, 2008

Some people can sing, some people can’t. This is a fact of life. When I was a kid, everyone who wanted to be in chorus went to try outs. The music teacher called each student, and you had to sing along while she played the piano. Some kids were chosen, others were not. I was chosen to be in chorus. I have also studied music for the past 23 years, so I consider myself to be qualified to dispense advice about singing techniques and musical ability.

If you are a good singer, you probably really love music. You probably like it more than most people. Some people may think that you have an almost freakish obsession with it. If this sounds like you, you might have some natural musical ability. Also, can you pick out a tune on a musical instrument such as a keyboard or a piano by ear? Can you play along with something that you are listening to? If you answered yes to these questions, most likely, you do have a natural inclination towards music. Here is another test. When you try to pick out rhythm, are you good at it? Can you pick out the beat of the music? Can you keep time with it? If you answered yes to all of these questions you are a natural. Lastly, can you read music? There are several books available that offer instruction on reading music, and they are written in a very easy to understand format. If you get one of these books, and study it, you should grasp the concepts easily.

If you do have a natural musical ability, singing should come second nature. It should be easy for you. Just remember a couple of things. First of all, learn the words. If you have to, write them down. Don’t try to sing a song where you don’t know the words. It will sound terrible no matter what. Also, and this is very important because so many people get this wrong, you don’t need to yell. Good singing cannot be enhanced by increasing decibels, and bad singing cannot be improved that way. If you have a sweet voice, the microphone will magnify it. Sing in a normal voice. Believe me, it makes a huge difference. The best way to tell if you are a good singer is to tape record yourself singing along to your favorite music. Do you think that you sound good? Do other people think that you sound good? That is the absolute best gauge of ability. Sing for your friends and family. If they don’t like it, I’m sure they will let you know. People have a very low tolerance for bad singing. If you suck, people will tell you to shut-up.

Even if you are a bad singer, you have absolutely no musical ability whatsoever, or you can’t read or sing a note, fear not. Plenty of people who have virtually no talent make millions of dollars and are huge stars in the music business.