Periscope
Live music provides new experienceThursday, April 19, 2012 By Misha Aungst
The adrenaline pulsing through the speakers, the beat of the music pumping through your core, the packed venue of a chanting crowd, and the chaos echoing in your ears: nothing beats a real, live concert. So often when I place my ear buds in and turn up the volume of my iPod, I realize that something is missing: the energy. Music’s beauty is in its tempo, beat, and lyrics, but the true wonder of real music, I find, is the energy of the musician that can only be captured in the physical presence of the artist. When we only listen to autotuned and computer-perfected music from such programs as iTunes or official videos on YouTube, we lose the beauty of the imperfections. During live concerts, the artists bring their words to life and the beauty of the music is in their flaws: their missed beats and differed pitches that result from their adrenaline and energy. As a society we are so focused on the art of perfection that we fail to realize the lack of perfection that creates beautiful music. The autotuned music we listen to on our iPods and MP3 players is not the true beauty of the artist, but a glamorized and perfected piece of their work. One reason why a concert is a completely different musical experience is the energy feedback that a performer receives from his audience. This connection between audience and performer makes the experience more emotional and physically moving. Out of all the concerts I have attended, including “Fall Out Boys”, “50 Cent”, “Switchfoot”, and “The Maine”, my favorite by far has been “Mayday Parade” on their tour of their album, “A Lesson in Romantics.” Unlike the other concerts I attended, which took place in a large arenas and a sense of disconnect between the artist and the audience, “Mayday Parade” performed at the Crocodile Rock Cafe in Allentown, a much smaller venue. Although the band is nationally recognized, they understand the importance of a concentrated audience where the stage is practically in the crowd. This closeness creates a sense that the artist is no longer some money-hungry celebrity but simply a true lover of music. For this reason I will never forget the expressions of the artist as they poured their souls into the songs they were projecting into the audience. Music is a powerful tool to bring people together and at a concert not only is an attendee connected with the artist, but also with the mass of fans surrounding them. Being a part of something bigger than yourself can create a sense of wonder that no iPod or stereo speaker can give you. Music is everywhere: in schools, concert halls, and even arenas like the Giant Center. By locating places to witness the beauty of live music, you will begin to better appreciate the artist and the art they conceive with their music. Check out some concerts this summer! Artist Date Location The Maine May 5 Crocodile Rock Cafe Red Hot Chili Peppers May 11 Wells Fargo Center Nevershoutnever May 17 Crocodile Rock Cafe Gavin DeGraw & Colbie Calliat June 1 River Stage at Great Plaza - Penn's Landing |