Monday, July 11, 2011

Juggling to the complex timings and time changes of a Beatles medley


This video has never failed to captivate students... even those who don't "get" the Beatles. The music is the Beatle's own medley from the end of the Abbey Road album, including "Golden Slumbers" and "Carry that Weight". The point of using this is that there are a whole series of interesting rhythmical motifs and time signature changes, and the juggler throws and catches in perfect timing. Moreover, he uses different juggling patterns to reflect the intensity and emotions of the music. Students can reflect on the way one art work can be used within another (e.g. Starry Starry Night). They might also like to reflect on the skill that sees the artist catch the balls in time, given that he cannot control the balls once they leave his hand. You can also reflect on why particular performances rise above entertainment to have personal impact.

No comments:

Post a Comment