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Introduction The Influence of Music in Our Daily Lives
Introduction The Influence of Music in Our Daily Lives
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Music to move your soul!Having watched the National Commemoration of the Abolition of Slavery televised from Westminster Abbey this morning, I am moved to comment on the importance of the music, which played such a prominent role during that service. I was reminded of how influential the legacy of the music the slaves brought to us has been. From the choristers and soloists, to orchestra, native drums and elephant horns from West Africa, it was a panoply of contrasts. The sad laments and cries of desperation in the songs, the warning horns and drums to signify the arrival of slave traders, and the haunting strings and soaring crescendos of the orchestra, playing music written by a black composer, himself the son of a slave. I’m ashamed to say I do not know his name, but he was known as the Black Mozart. However, I will find out ! Music making the world a better placeIf we are to succeed in making this world a better place, it is vital that we teach our children that it is not the colour, or language or religion of the majority of people that create the problems we face, but the behaviour of misguided and sometimes evil intentioned minority, regardless of race.We can begin to influence our childrens attitudes at a very early age. Music is a wonderful way of entertaining them while educating them. Listening to it, dancing or singing to it. The genre is not very important to start with, although exposure to a wide variety is. Classical to Country, Rock or Rumba, Streetdance or Soul, Hip Hop or Clog Dance, all have their place in someones heart. All have a history, and as we progress, the fusion between some of them is outstanding. By being introduced to music, few people can remain unmoved, and most children are keen to experiment with one of the performing arts. Playing an instrument, however humble, learning to dance or sing gives them a sense of purpose and self esteem, as well as teaching them discipline, tolerance and teamwork. They will learn to express the feelings, and emotions that music stirs within the majority of us. In conclusion, the programme I watched today reminded me not only of a shameful part of our history, but also of the enormous debt we owe to the slaves for their part in our prosperity and the enrichment of our culture. What better way to celebrate them if not by acknowledging their huge contribution to music and dance, literature and art, and by our supporting the performing arts and encouraging our children to take part in them.
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| Last Updated on Wednesday, 22 July 2009 10:42 |
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