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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, AU$ 60.95
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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, AU$ 170.95
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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, AU$ 110.95
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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, AU$ 77.95
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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, AU$ 73.95
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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, AU$ 55.95
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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, AU$ 82.95
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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, AU$ 104.95
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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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Elvis and His Music, 2007.
An analysis on the musical successes and the personal downfalls of Elvis Presley.
843 words (approx. 3.4 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 48.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the life and music of Elvis Presley. It describes his background, his upbringing and his introduction into a career of music. The paper then describes Elvis' successes as a musician, both in the United States and internationally. It also looks into his personal downfall into drugs and alcohol and discusses the effect that celebrity had on him.
From the Paper
"Although a gifted and musician and a good and generous human being, by the end of his life, Elvis had fallen into a state of decadence, drunkenness, drug abuse, and physical deterioration (Simon 1995). He had become bitterly disappointed with his life, and almost a desolate person, for celebrity had basically chewed up his creativity (Simon 1995). Guralnick writes that there were "fewer and fewer opportunities to withdraw from the spotlight, and with the ability to withdraw from the spotlight," he simply became consumed by it (Simon 1995). Ironically, his manager Colonel Tom Parker understood that one of the key elements of success is limited exposure of the artist to the public, otherwise, the public will consume the artist. However, Guralnick notes, "I think that it didn't work for Elvis because his creative outlet were not maintained at the same time...but some one like Bob Dylan, for instance, sought to recreate himself over and over again," thus he withdrew from the spotlight to do different things, to do new things, and this is perhaps the only way to survive in a celebrity-consuming age (Simon 1995)."
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Alfred Schnittke, 2006.
A look at the life and work of Russian composer, Alfred Schnittke.
2,515 words (approx. 10.1 pages), 13 sources, APA, AU$ 120.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews and discusses the life and work of Alfred Schnittke, said to be the most important composer to arise in Russia after Dmitry Shostakovich. According to the paper, Schnittke has also been listed as one of the leading avant-garde composers of the postwar era, even though he changed his own way of writing music as he developed through time.
From the Paper
"Schnittke's String Trio (1985) is a homage to Alban Berg, and here Schnittke refers to the older composer's style in a general way rather than by using specific quotation. The whole piece is a complex set of variations or transformations of the opening material, with polyphonic density shared by the Fourth String Quartet and the Piano Quartet (both 1989, with the latter incorporating material from an unfinished piano quartet by Mahler). With is later chamber works, and in his symphonies, Schnittke reveals a greater textural transparency in his writing, something that is also apparent in both the Second Sonata for cello and piano (1993-4) and the Third Sonata for violin and piano (1994). "
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The Arpeggione, 2006.
A discussion regarding Johann George Staufer and the arpeggione.
2,365 words (approx. 9.5 pages), 10 sources, APA, AU$ 114.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at an instrument called the arpeggione. The arpeggione is a string instrument developed by Johann George Staufer. This paper dissects the creation of the arpeggione and discusses why its specific qualities made it into a unique entrant into the viola family. The paper also examines music that has been specifically written for the arpeggione, and how it structurally differs from that of traditional music.
From the Paper
"The lack of success with opera is a story that reflects on why the arpeggione sonata was written in the first place. Schubert entered into the opera scene mainly at the behest of his close friend. Schubert places a heavy emphasis on his friendships within this period and as a result, would write many of his pieces to express his devotion to friends and colleagues. Since he was a close friend Staufer, the maker of the instrument, probably requested that the sonata be written specifically for the arpeggione. There was no direct evidence that Schubert received payment or even a commission request for this piece. Therefore many contemporary critics term him the "composer of Friendship". Therefore as author Harmon Milner explains it, to understand Schubert's actual modus operandi, one must start by looking at his closest friends and colleagues, because they form the "epicenter of his motivation"."
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Music Downloads, 2007.
An analysis of the ethical and legal implications of downloading music for free off the Internet.
755 words (approx. 3.0 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 41.95
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Abstract
This three page paper presents a discussion about the downloading of music off of the Internet. The writer argues that it has a tremendous impact on society and the music industry by decreasing profits to the musicians and music centers. It discusses the ethical implications of downloading music for free and discusses laws that are necessary to prevent this.
From the Paper
"Why should artists continue to write new songs, perform on stage and put them to cd if they are not going to be paid for their efforts? Would you go to work if at the end of the week you didn't get a paycheck? Downloading music instead of paying for the cd or privilege will have long reaching affects on society. It will discourage artists from producing new material and it will teach future generations that stealing is okay as long as one doesn't get caught. Both of these options have negative impacts on society. "In a period of lackluster sales, illegal downloading isn't the only factor affecting the depressed music industry. Disgruntled consumers have contributed significantly to the decline in retail music sales. Retail music sales, valued at $12.5 billion in 2005, are predicted to fall to $10.5 billion by 2010, according to a recent Mintel report (Spotlight, 2006).""
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RIAA - Internet Music Downloads, 2005.
A review of issues surrounding downloading music from the Internet.
1,221 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 7 sources, MLA, AU$ 65.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at music downloads. The paper reviews how music is downloaded via the Internet, and various issues relating to music downloads. The paper also discusses whether this is illegal or not.
Outline:
Introduction
How Music is Downloaded from the Internet
The Threats of Music Downloading
Music Downloading : Why is it Illegal?
Conclusion
From the Paper
"At first, it may seem that ease of downloading music from the Internet will produce nothing but positive impact to the consumers. They will be able to get and enjoy music for free. They will be able to share music to their friends without limits or boundaries. However, the fact remains that copying or downloading music from the internet is piracy. It is copying without proper consent from the real owners. It is copying and reproducing without notifying the people who have shed great efforts in producing such music. Thus, honor, credibility and integrity of the consumer is being wage. "
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The Story of Opera 1590-1650, 2007.
This paper traces the development of Opera in Renaissance Europe.
2,433 words (approx. 9.7 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 117.95
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Abstract
This paper explores and examines the development of Opera during the Renaissance in Europe. The author describes the desire of Renaissance artists to emulate classical Greece and Rome, and how this influenced music of this time. The author discusses several composers and the impact of their works. The evolution of singing style is also addressed. The author concludes by acknowledging the new genre that these musicians created at the end of the Renaissance period.
From the Paper
"The first composers of opera - in the period 1590 to 1650 - were faced, therefore, with the difficulties of "reconstructing" a lost art. As they had little to work from save for theories, it was inevitable that their creations should proceed in different directions. Though all agreed that operas should be entirely sung, composers faced the problem of connecting actual songs, or arias, with the sung dialogue of the recitative. The striving to achieve a seamless linkage between the powerful sentiments expressed by the aria, and the need to fill in the "back story" through use of recitative was emblematic of a basic philosophical goal of the Renaissance period. "It reflects the paradigmatic views of its time--in particular, views of the mind/body relation. Early opera had no unconscious; it was not yet dualistic. Philosophers looked for ways to make soul and substance one." For many composers of opera, however, this presented an interesting dilemma i.e. if opera was essentially a performance of song, was not the quality of the singing the most important feature? Giulio Caccini discourse at length on the beauty of the voice, and on the idea that only the solo voice can attain to true virtue. "
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Blind Musicians and Music, 2006.
A review of the amazing contributions of blind musicians to music.
1,504 words (approx. 6.0 pages), 8 sources, MLA, AU$ 77.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at various blind musicians and the contributions they have made to the music world. The paper discusses the life and work of Blind Tom, Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles and Blind Lemon Jefferson.
Outline:
Review and Discussion
Background and Overview
Contributions of Blind Musicians
Conclusion
From the Paper
"By the time he reached his majority, Blind Tom possessed a repertoire of hundreds of pieces, all contained in his memory alone. In would appear, that in this individual's case, the inability to see also accentuated his other auditory abilities: "Tom's memory extended to other auditory information besides music: he could repeat without error conversations of up to fifteen minutes that he had overheard. He could also sing back songs in French or German (which, of course, he could not understand) after only one hearing" (Winner, 1996, p. 134). While musical savants may be the rule rather than the exception when it comes to musical genius, there are some well-known examples of blind musical prodigies as well but these musicians have not received as much attention. According to Haroutounian (2000), musical prodigies in general typically reach an advanced stage of development quickly and are capable of pursuing professional careers at an early age; however, some musical prodigies tend to experience a sort of "mid-life crisis" when they reached adolescence: "What happens to the bird who sings and doesn't know how it sings? That's what happens to child prodigies. They wake up and ask themselves dangerous questions about how they do it -- and they have no answers" (Haroutounian, 2000, p. 3). Furthermore, Goldstein (1998) reports that most traditional colleges and universities are ill-prepared to address the special needs of musical prodigies in general and blind students in particular, so it is a wonder that there are any professional blind musicians at all, but some persevere and these individuals are discussed further below."
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Music Therapy and Alzheimer's Disease, 2007.
This paper describes the use of music therapy with Alzheimer's patients.
991 words (approx. 4.0 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 55.95
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Abstract
This paper presents an examination of the impact that music has on Alzheimer's disease. The writer explores the reduction of Alzheimer's symptoms that have been shown with the use of music therapy and explores future use of the therapy. The author concludes that music therapy has proven itself to be a mainstay in Alzheimer's patients comprehensive treatment plans.
From the Paper
"In recent years medical science has made advances that have provided a longer lifespan than ever before, however, with that lifespan increase comes a higher incidence of Alzheimer's disease. While Alzheimer's disease can strike at any age it is typically seen in the elderly and the symptoms can be devastating. People watch their parents lose their memories, forget who they are and become a danger to themselves with their forgetful actions. "
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