Music is a universal language that has the power to convey emotions and meaning without using words. This is especially true for instrumental music, where the sounds and melodies communicate ideas and feelings on their own. In American culture, instruments …
The Art of Making it Up: Tracing the History and Techniques of Improvisation
Improvisation, the act of spontaneously creating art without preparation, has deep roots across numerous disciplines. From comedians riffing jokes onstage to musicians jamming together, improv permeates both the performing arts and everyday life. While often associated with comedy, improvisation transcends …
Sonic Boundaries: How Musicians Challenge Traditional Notions of Genre
For decades, genres have served as guideposts that allow fans to easily identify and classify their favorite music. But artists have begun questioning the rigidity of genre labels, leading to innovations that dissolve the boundaries between categories. Musicians across the …
Unconventional Sounds: Analyzing the Evolution of Experimental Music
Experimental music, often referred to as “US” (Unconventional Sounds), is a genre that challenges traditional notions of composition, structure, and instrumentation. It embraces a spirit of exploration and innovation, pushing the boundaries of what is considered music. This article delves …
The Soundtrack of Change: How Music Has Shaped Social Movements in America
Music has long been intertwined with struggles for social change in the United States. From slave spirituals to protest anthems, music has provided both inspiration and a rallying cry for marginalised groups seeking equality and justice. This examination explores how …
From New Orleans to New York: How Jazz Evolved and Shaped Modern Music
Jazz emerged in the early 20th century as a distinctly American musical genre, rooted in the African American communities of New Orleans. The origins of jazz can be traced back to musical traditions such as blues, ragtime, and brass bands, …