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rabbitcruiser · 7 months

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International Country Music Day

International Country Music Day, on September 17, is a day of festivals, concerts, dances, and all kinds of other events that celebrate country music, to honor this distinctly American genre. Today is about the music. It’s popular to joke about country songs being all about losing your dog, your truck, your job, and your girlfriend, but in reality, the breadth and depth of the genre offer something for everyone, from Williams’ ‘Hey Good Lookin’,’ to New Country songs like Toby Keith’s ‘Red Solo Cup.’ On International Country Music Day, dip into the wellspring and take a sip.

History of INTERNATIONAL COUNTRY MUSIC DAY

Though International Country Music Day has only been a worldwide phenomenon since 2003, country music itself evolved during the 1920s in the U.S. The music form is the result of a mix of Delta blues, Appalachian folk, Cajun music, Creole Zydeco, and others. Today, people often think of the genre as “Old Country,” which has been wildly popular since the 1950s.

Artists during this golden period such as Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and of course Hank Williams, gave fans unforgettable stories and glimpses into the struggles of a hardscrabble life. Speaking of Hank Williams, the day chosen for this holiday, September 17, is Williams’ birthday. It’s easy to guess the country music icon left a wealth of quality country songs as his legacy, such as ‘Cold Cold Heart’ and ‘Lost Highway.’

As a matter of fact, all 35 of the singles Williams recorded made the top ten on the Billboard Country & Western Bestsellers chart, with 11 of them reaching the number one spot. Mention the phrase country music, and don’t be surprised if the name Hank Williams is in the first sentence of the response. We believe he’d be honored at the association of his birth date with International Country Music Day.

New country, on the other hand, is a subgenre represented by a similarly talented pool of singers and songwriters, including Dierks Bentley, Miranda Lambert, Keith Urban, and many more, with a younger generation of country musicians taking up the mantle more and more as time goes by. Country music shows no signs of slowing down or going away, so take International Country Music Day as a chance to discover why so many people around the world love country music.

INTERNATIONAL COUNTRY MUSIC DAY timeline

1923

Birth of a legend

Hank Williams is born, eventually to personify country music for millions of fans.

1963

Can you name three other songs by him?

Johnny Cash records “Ring of Fire,” capturing the attention of a huge number of radio listeners who may not have ventured into the world of country music.

2003

Synchronicity

The first official International Country Music Day is kicked off, coordinating hundreds of concerts and festivals worldwide to occur on the same day, September 17.

2017

Hard to knockdown

Sam Hunt’s “Body Like a Back Road” spends 34 weeks at number one on the country charts.

INTERNATIONAL COUNTRY MUSIC DAY FAQs

Is country music popular outside the US?

While the bulk of country listening takes place in the U.S., there has been a 21% increase in the share of country music streaming outside America since 2015.

What does country music represent?

Country music is defined as “a style and genre of largely string-accompanied American popular music having roots in the folk music of the Southeast and cowboy music of the West, usually vocalized, generally simple in form and harmony, and typified by romantic or melancholy ballads accompanied by acoustic or electric.

Outside the States, where is country music the most popular?

Perhaps partly because of the shared language, the U.K, Australia, and Canada boast the largest numbers of faithful country music fans outside the U.S.

INTERNATIONAL COUNTRY MUSIC DAY Activities

Attend a concert or festival: After 2020’s pandemic, you’ll once again be able to join the crowd at a country music performance, have an adult beverage, and give line dancing a shot. If you want to get to the heart of country music and really experience it first-hand, a trip to Nashville, Tennessee — considered the epicenter of country music — wouldn’t be a bad idea.

Pick up a musical instrument: There are many to choose from other than the usual guitar. Decide to learn a new skill and try out the fiddle, the dobro, the steel guitar, the banjo, the harmonica — the list goes on. There’s no better way to show you love country music than to play some yourself.

Listen at homeIf you’re like us, the accessibility of all types of music at a click is one of our favorite reasons to love the internet. On International Country Music Day, go on a surfing journey and listen to the old country standards and the new country hits. If you’re normally a listener of “everything except country,” make an exception. We’ll bet you do find something you like.

5 Amazing Facts About Johnny Cash

Put it on “shuffle”: Asked what albums he’d have with him if stranded on a desert island, Cash listed a roster that includes Emmylou Harris, Beethoven, and Bob Dylan.

Lucky seven?: Despite having been arrested a total of seven times — some of them on drug charges — Cash only ever spent one night behind bars.

An apt alias: Before reaching his fame, Cash only ever went by the first name “J.R.” with the initials remaining ambiguous in terms of what they stood for, and only adopted the name “John” when an Air Force recruiter would not accept initials for a first name.

“You may now kiss …”: In the 1970s, Cash spent two years studying divinity and became an ordained minister in time to preside over his daughter’s marriage.

Not just a songwriter: In 1986, Cash published a novel called “Man In White,” a fictional account of a period in the life of the apostle Paul.

Why We Love INTERNATIONAL COUNTRY MUSIC DAY

Lots of country songs are fun and funny: Stories are indeed at the heart of country songs, but not all of them are about heartbreak. Take a look at the song “Ticks” by Brad Paisley. “I’d like to see you out in the moonlight / I’d like to kiss you way back in the sticks / I’d like to walk you through a field of wildflowers / And I’d like to check you for ticks.” And that’s just one example. Listened to with an open mind, country music can often make you smile.

There’s nothing like a live concert: You can be the owner of an artist’s entire discography and have a dozen songs memorized to sing along with, but to truly experience a country musician’s personality and heart, at least one live concert is de rigueur. We love to feel that electric charge in the air!

It’s truly American: The U.S. may have the right to claim that rock and roll originated within its borders, but country & western, also quintessentially American, predates rock by some twenty years. To celebrate country music is to celebrate American history.

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#The Source of Country Music by Thomas Hart Benton #International Country Music Day #17 September #Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum #Brad Paisley #Music City #Garth Brooks #Kris Kristofferson #Jerry Reed #my favorite music #Tennessee #travel #original photography #vacation #tourist attraction #landmark #architecture #USA #Nashville

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pagansphinx · 4 months

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Thomas Hart Benton (American, 1889-1975) • The Source of Country Music • 1975 • Acrylic on canvas • Hall of Fame Rotunda at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Nashville, Tennessee

#art #painting #fine art #art history #thomas hart benton #american artist #museum mural #regionalism #american realism #20th century american art #commisioned art #americana #pagan sphinx art blog #art blog #acrylic painting

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vcam1952 · 2 years

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Thomas Hart Benton | The Sources of Country Music, 1975 (at Royal Oak, Michigan) https://www.instagram.com/p/CiwfKBQO0w8/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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onceuponawildflower · 6 years

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The Sources of Country Music by Thomas Hart Benton

Dear users, your tune for today should be Johnny Cash (who I adore!).

One can almost hear the music streaming from the canvas—sounds of various string instruments and a chorus of voices. This is not a random grouping of musicians, dancers, and singers; rather, the painting highlights key contributors to the birth and evolution of American country music. The substantial mural, which seems to pulsate with a unified rhythm, was completed by Regionalist artist Thomas Hart Benton in his characteristic fluid style at the age of 85. The Sources of Country Music features sixteen nearly life-sized figures and was commissioned by and hangs in the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville, Tennessee.

Benton, who grew up in Missouri and is known for his depictions of everyday life in the Midwest, had a lifelong love of country music, listening to it since childhood. His vision for the mural was that "it should show the roots of the music - the sources - before there were records and stars." As illustrated in the painting, American country music is a blend of many elements and influences. It is rooted in folk songs that arrived with English and Scotch Irish settlers and were adapted to the American landscape and culture. Initially, the tunes were only accompanied by fiddles, but over time, banjos from the Deep South, dulcimers from Appalachia, and guitars linked to the Western plains were added. Likewise, different song styles became integrated, including ballads, Gospel hymns, blues melodies, and Western songs. Barn dances and square dances also played a role in the evolution of country music as did river music (represented by the steamboat) and railroad songs (symbolized by the locomotive).

Famed country music singer Tex Ritter approached Benton about painting the mural but died before it was completed and is immortalized as the singing cowboy in the foreground. Benton was reviewing the completed mural and deciding whether to rework the engine when he died of a heart attack, leaving the painting unsigned.

- Martina Keogan

P.S. And here's a different face of America with 10 unexpected paintings of New York.

#daily art #Thomas Hart Benton #the sources of country music #americana #regionalism #art #american art

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gtunesmiff · 5 years

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"The Sources of Country Music” by Thomas Hart Benton (His last work, unsigned, in the Country Music Hall of Fame Rotunda, Gnashville, Tennesiezure)

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coltonwbrown · 5 years

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The Sources of Country Music

Thomas Hart Benton

https://www.arts.gov/about/40th-anniversary-highlights/thomas-hart-bentons-final-gift

#thomas hart benton #music

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red-stick-rambler · 5 years

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Thomas Hart Benton, The Sources of Country Music, 1975.

At the Country Music Hall of Fame, Nashville, TN.

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evergreenworkshop · 2 years

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rabbitcruiser · 11 months

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World Fiddle Day

Schedule a lesson or find a performance to enjoy one of the classic instruments of the working class, the fiddle. Or sit down to watch Fiddler on the Roof!

World Fiddle Day is an annual music celebration day celebrated on the Third Saturday of May. This year it will be observed on May 19. Even though World Fiddle Day was created in 2012, it gained popularity all over the world within a few years. It was created to celebrate and to teach the playing of bowed string instruments throughout the world by conducting participatory and inclusive events. The fiddle is a bowed string musical instrument, used by the players in all genres including classical music.

World Fiddle Day happens once a year and is meant to celebrate everything that everyone loves about the chirpy, fun and feisty art of fiddle music. You’ll see it being celebrated on the third Saturday of each May. The fiddle is always known to be something positive, with all the songs and notes it produces high energy, entertaining, and bringing something positive. Making the room dance, wherever the sound of a fiddle is played.

Around the world, this day is celebrated with dancing, music, and of course plenty of fiddle playing!

History of World Fiddle Day

Before we speak about the day, it may be best to get a better idea of the Fiddle that is being celebrated! The fiddle is a four-stringed musical instrument of the string family, also often referred to as a small type of violin. Like the violin, it is also played with a bow. The terms fiddling or fiddle playing actually refer to a style of music, most commonly folk music. The origins of the name ‘fiddle’ are not known but is believed to be derived from an early violin or the Old English word ‘fithele’. The fiddle is common to English folk music, Irish folk music, Scandinavian music, Austrian, French, Hungarian, Polish, American, Latin American, African, and even Australian music. There is no difference between the fiddle and small violin aside from the name and type of music the instrument is used for.

A fiddle has many parts including the neck, fingerboard, tuning pegs, scroll, pegbox, bridge, soundhole, strings, fine tuners, tailpiece, bass bar, soundboard, chinrest, button, backplate, and bow. The earliest fiddles (or violins) were derived from the bow instruments from the Middle Ages.

When it comes to building a high-quality fiddle, it can take as many as 200 hours for craftsmen to handcraft a professional fiddle, showing that for a relatively simple looking and fun instrument, a lot of craft and workmanship has to go into building one.

Traditional fiddle strings were made of pig, goat, horse, or sheep intestine. Today they are made from steel or aluminium over a nylon core. Now, the last fiddle fact that you may want to take down for your next game of trivia, is that the fastest fiddler/violinist on record is Ben lee who played ‘Flight of the Bumblebee’ in just over a minute in 2010. He played an average of 13 notes each second for a total of 810 notes in all. Now that is pretty impressive, so now the fiddle has been explained, what about the day?

The day was founded in 2012 by one Caoimhin Mac Aoidh, a professional fiddler from Donegal in Ireland. The day was birthed from a deep respect for one of the most expert and revered violin makers in history.

This month was chosen to coincide with the anniversary of the death of the Italian violin craftsman Antonio Stradivari’s way back in 1737.

Stradivari is today considered the most significant creator of violins in history, with his surviving instruments today seen as the most prized and finest ever created. Although he also made the larger string instruments cellos and violas, it’s the violins that he lovingly crafted that he is most well-known and remembered for.

Though only a couple of hundred of his works still exists, they have been known to capture some huge prices at auction and are especially sought-after amongst professional violin players.

How to celebrate World Fiddle Day

If you ever learned how to play the violin in school, or you frequently play it either for pleasure or for work, today is a great day to get out your fiddle and play a couple of tunes! Perhaps play a little for friends or family, or show your children how to play some simple themes. If you do not own one, or do not know how to play it, then this could be a great time to learn. It is always fun and engaging to learn a new musical instrument, so why not start to learn the art of the fiddle, and maybe at next year’s celebrations you can play to the world what you have managed to learn!

If you aren’t lucky enough to have learned how to play this string instrument, you can celebrate its day by listening to some of the fantastic performances by string artists easily found on Youtube or Spotify. Add a spring to your daily commute with some Mozart, Barber or Brahms!

And if you’ve always fancied trying your hand at the violin, perhaps today you could take a trial lesson learning how to play? Who knows – by the time the next World Fiddle Day comes along, you could be able to play along with everyone else who is fiddling away!

Whatever you get up to, have a great World Fiddle Day!

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rabbitcruiser · 10 months

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World Music Day

From Beethoven to Taylor Swift, there’s music for everyone. Revisit your old favorites or discover new artists from different cultures on World Music Day.

There’s nothing in the world like the sound of your favorite song coming on, it just gets right into your head and your body and makes you move. Or maybe it takes you on a journey to a faraway place and time, where you languish in a memory of times gone by and people who are no longer present. Some of our favorite songs can lift us up out of depression and worry, and make an otherwise horrible day suddenly seem like it’s not so bad. World Music Day celebrates music in all its forms and the impact it’s had on the world and the human spirit.

World Music Day is for everybody to enjoy

Have you ever put on your headphones, hit play on an upbeat tune and waltzed down the street as if you were in a movie? You’re not alone, everybody has done it (they’re just too afraid to admit it!). Music has the ability to lift your spirits even when you don’t feel like getting out of bed that day. Why shouldn’t there be an entire day to celebrate the wonders of music? World Music Day needs to be celebrated far and wide without a doubt! Next time you’re in a bit of a funk, crank up your favorite song (close your curtains) and dance like nobody’s watching. It’s a soul soothing activity that should always be your go to saviour!

World Music Day is free and full of fun!

The best thing about World Music Day is that it is completely free to celebrate. No matter what kind of music you love you can take part for free and you can get the whole family involved. It is the perfect opportunity to try playing a brand-new instrument or listen to a type of music that you wouldn’t normally have on your playlist.

Every type of musician, whether you are young, old, new or a seasoned professional can embrace world music day with friends, family and even strangers!

Last year more than one thousand cities all over the world celebrated World Music Day, so why don’t you take this opportunity to do it to? Anybody can make music; it doesn’t matter how good you are. If you are the type of person who sings in the shower, why not use this opportunity to showcase your talents? Even the most tone deaf people can take this day to sing their hearts out and celebrate the beauty and power of music!

World Music Day originally launched several decades ago in France. In 1982 the Ministry of Culture in France developed a clever idea to celebrate the wonders of music. They wanted free, live music to be available to everybody no matter what their heritage or background. Usually you have to pay for tickets to music festivals, but not with World Music Day!

The many benefits of listening to music

Music is not only a fantastic creative outlet, but it can also have many health benefits. When you listen to a particular song it can bring back a happy memory or make you feel energized. Studies suggest that listening to music can have a number of positive effects on your health and mental wellbeing. As well as enhancing your performance of exercise, it can also provide a huge amount of comfort. Exercise has also been proven to reduce anxiety and listening to relaxing music can also decrease stress levels. So if you are looking for a mood boosting activity, why not celebrate World Music Day and let all of your troubles rush away from your mind instantly?

History of World Music Day

Music has existed for as long as mankind has found its voice, and quite possibly before. Every culture of the world has its own form of music, as distinct and unique to its area as language and cuisine. In the western world, we are familiar only with scales, known as the diatonic scale which should be familiar to anyone who took music classes or choir in school. But this is not the only or even the first scale that music can use.

There’s the chromatic scale, which has 12 notes instead of the 7, and the octatonic scale, which has 8 notes, but these are just the beginning. In every part of the world, there are different scales and musical formats used, and these create a form of music that has its own signature. Then when you add in the cultural themes, the variety of instruments, and the forms of voice singing that can go along with it, music is a truly endless adventure. World Music Day celebrates this adventure and those that dare to take it.

How to celebrate World Music Day

The best way to celebrate World Music Day is to spend the day listening to all your old favorites, and if you’re truly feeling adventurous start exploring YouTube for music from different cultures. You can explore Finnish and Hungarian, Italian and Mongolian, and then start digging into folk music. With sources like these, it’s easier than ever to explore the panorama of musical experiences the world has to offer, and you can do it all from the comfort of your own home. Of course, you could always pick up an instrument and start adding your own voice to the choir!

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rabbitcruiser · 1 year

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National Violin Day

Tune up your fiddle and get bowing, sign up to instrument lessons or attend a concert to hear the gorgeous sounds of a string orchestra.

The violin is easily the most well-known bowed string instrument across the world, and it is really not all that surprising to see that the violin does in fact have a day dedicated to its existence! After all, everything from Western and Indian classical music to bluegrass and jazz would be unimaginable today without the violin.

It is quite possibly the most versatile instrument in the world in terms of repertoire–and that must be why there is a special day all its own to celebrate the violin.

History of National Violin Day

The violin itself seems to have evolved from medieval instruments that were like fiddles. It came into its own distinct form by the 15th century, becoming the most popular virtuoso instrument in Europe by the 1660s. Most violins made today are copies after either Stradivarius or Amati, the latter being active as a violin maker in the 16th century.

Today, the violin not only remains an indispensable feature of western classical music, but has found its way into various forms of classical and folk music around the world as well as various other genres. There are a lot of violinists and fiddle players throughout the world today, so it is easy to see why National Violin Day has caught on!

In fact, the violin is present in the most prestigious musical groups in the world, including the Venetian Philharmonic Orchestra. Imagine an instrument with such humble beginnings becoming such an important mainstay of modern classical music.

Now it’s time to celebrate the day revolving around this humble instrument!

How to Celebrate National Violin Day

For those who want to get involved with National Violin Day but are not quite sure where to start, these ideas might help to set the stage for the day:

Play the Violin

Well, for those who happen to play the instrument, then it is a no-brainer to go ahead and play the violin in honor of National Violin Day. Get that violin out of its case, tune it, place some rosin on the bow, and get ready to make some beautiful music in honor of the day! And those who are a little bit out of practice might want to invest in some ear plugs for family members.

Go to a Violin Concert

For those who simply want to appreciate the sound of the violin without actually playing it, then it might be a great idea to go to a concert where the instrument would be played on National Violin Day.

Not sure where to go? Try out one of these important groups that is sure to feature a superb violinist or two:

Boston Symphony Orchestra Playing at Symphony Hall in Boston, Massachusetts, this orchestra also features a Young People’s Concert Series to allow the public to hear up-and-coming new talent.

Itzhak Perlman Undoubtedly one of the most talented violinists alive today, Perlman has achieved almost super star status with his instrument.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra Mixing classical music talent with rock band style, this group plays all round the world and, yes, they feature many songs with a violin. It’s not necessarily “classical”, but a modern ear for music just might love it.

Give a Gift to a Favorite Violinist

For those who happen to know someone interested in learning the violin but who doesn’t have an instrument – today would be the perfect occasion to gift that person a violin. Or gift something to a violinist in your circle, even if it’s just some sheet music, some rosin or just a little card to show appreciation for them and their attempt at mastery of the instrument.

The modern violin family includes not only the violin, but also the viola, the violoncello, and the double bass as well. So for those who know any cellists or violists, today would also be a great day to listen to them play or to get them a gift as well!

Watch a Film About the Violin

Interested in learning more but not ready for a live performance yet? That’s okay! National Violin Day is a great way to feed a mild interest by watching a film about the instrument. Whether fiction or documentary, these movies would be a great way to get started:

Music of the Heart (1999), starring Meryl Streep This biographical drama features the true store of Roberta Guaspari, who was a violin teacher in Harlem in the late 1980s.

Orchestra of Exiles (2012), written by Josh Aronson This documentary tells the true story of a Polish violinist who founded the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra.

Small Wonders (1995), directed by Allan Miller This is the Academy Award nominated documentary upon which Music of the Heart was based. It tells the story of the kids in East Harlem and their violinist teacher who went against the odds to play at Carnegie Hall.

A Late Quartet (2012), starring Christopher Walken This movie tells the story of a group of four struggling musicians who face serious challenges when their cellist is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

Start Taking Violin Lessons

For those who have ever had the inclination to learn the violin, or perhaps have one laying around unused, this day is just the perfect time to start taking violin lessons. Start with the basics like brushing up on how to read music and then get to practicing. Don’t forget other important equipment such as a practice mute, extra set of strings, metronome and a comfortable shoulder rest.

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rabbitcruiser · 4 months

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National Violin Day

Tune up your fiddle and get bowing, sign up to instrument lessons or attend a concert to hear the gorgeous sounds of a string orchestra.

The violin is easily the most well-known bowed string instrument across the world, and it is really not all that surprising to see that the violin does in fact have a day dedicated to its existence! After all, everything from Western and Indian classical music to bluegrass and jazz would be unimaginable today without the violin.

It is quite possibly the most versatile instrument in the world in terms of repertoire–and that must be why there is a special day all its own to celebrate the violin.

History of National Violin Day

The violin itself seems to have evolved from medieval instruments that were like fiddles. It came into its own distinct form by the 15th century, becoming the most popular virtuoso instrument in Europe by the 1660s. Most violins made today are copies after either Stradivarius or Amati, the latter being active as a violin maker in the 16th century.

Today, the violin not only remains an indispensable feature of western classical music, but has found its way into various forms of classical and folk music around the world as well as various other genres. There are a lot of violinists and fiddle players throughout the world today, so it is easy to see why National Violin Day has caught on!

In fact, the violin is present in the most prestigious musical groups in the world, including the Venetian Philharmonic Orchestra. Imagine an instrument with such humble beginnings becoming such an important mainstay of modern classical music.

Now it’s time to celebrate the day revolving around this humble instrument!

How to Celebrate National Violin Day

For those who want to get involved with National Violin Day but are not quite sure where to start, these ideas might help to set the stage for the day:

Play the Violin

Well, for those who happen to play the instrument, then it is a no-brainer to go ahead and play the violin in honor of National Violin Day. Get that violin out of its case, tune it, place some rosin on the bow, and get ready to make some beautiful music in honor of the day! And those who are a little bit out of practice might want to invest in some ear plugs for family members.

Go to a Violin Concert

For those who simply want to appreciate the sound of the violin without actually playing it, then it might be a great idea to go to a concert where the instrument would be played on National Violin Day.

Not sure where to go? Try out one of these important groups that is sure to feature a superb violinist or two:

Boston Symphony Orchestra Playing at Symphony Hall in Boston, Massachusetts, this orchestra also features a Young People’s Concert Series to allow the public to hear up-and-coming new talent.

Itzhak Perlman Undoubtedly one of the most talented violinists alive today, Perlman has achieved almost super star status with his instrument.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra Mixing classical music talent with rock band style, this group plays all round the world and, yes, they feature many songs with a violin. It’s not necessarily “classical”, but a modern ear for music just might love it.

Give a Gift to a Favorite Violinist

For those who happen to know someone interested in learning the violin but who doesn’t have an instrument – today would be the perfect occasion to gift that person a violin. Or gift something to a violinist in your circle, even if it’s just some sheet music, some rosin or just a little card to show appreciation for them and their attempt at mastery of the instrument.

The modern violin family includes not only the violin, but also the viola, the violoncello, and the double bass as well. So for those who know any cellists or violists, today would also be a great day to listen to them play or to get them a gift as well!

Watch a Film About the Violin

Interested in learning more but not ready for a live performance yet? That’s okay! National Violin Day is a great way to feed a mild interest by watching a film about the instrument. Whether fiction or documentary, these movies would be a great way to get started:

Music of the Heart (1999), starring Meryl Streep This biographical drama features the true store of Roberta Guaspari, who was a violin teacher in Harlem in the late 1980s.

Orchestra of Exiles (2012), written by Josh Aronson This documentary tells the true story of a Polish violinist who founded the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra.

Small Wonders (1995), directed by Allan Miller This is the Academy Award nominated documentary upon which Music of the Heart was based. It tells the story of the kids in East Harlem and their violinist teacher who went against the odds to play at Carnegie Hall.

A Late Quartet (2012), starring Christopher Walken This movie tells the story of a group of four struggling musicians who face serious challenges when their cellist is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

Start Taking Violin Lessons

For those who have ever had the inclination to learn the violin, or perhaps have one laying around unused, this day is just the perfect time to start taking violin lessons. Start with the basics like brushing up on how to read music and then get to practicing. Don’t forget other important equipment such as a practice mute, extra set of strings, metronome and a comfortable shoulder rest.

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rabbitcruiser · 2 years

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International Country Music Day

Country music is one of the most popular types of music in the world and this special type of music originated in the USA. International Country Music Day was established in the 1950s and is held each year on September 17th. On this special day, country music festivals are held at various venues around the world. Lovers of country music gather to listen to live music acts while drinking and dancing. Line dancing is popular during International Country Music Day and competitions are often held to determine the best dancers.

Learn about International Country Music Day

International Country Music Day is a day that has been designed so that we can pay tribute to some of the world’s best country artists. Whether you are a huge fan of the genre or not, you are encouraged to listen to some country music on this date. You could even break out the fiddle or banjo and get involved yourself.

Country music, which can sometimes be referred to as country and western, is a form of music that has been popular for many years now. Its roots come from old-time music and blues, as well as a number of different types of American folk music. This includes Tejano, Texas country, New Mexico country, Red Dirt country, Cajun, and Appalachian. Country music tends to consist of both dance tunes and ballads, which have harmonies, folk lyrics, and simple forms.

History of International Country Music Day

International Country Music Day has been going strong since 2003. It was created as a day so that fans of country music and country music artists were brought together. The date was chosen because it is also the birthday of Hank Williams, who is one of the most famous and influential country music artists.

Hank Williams was born on the 17th of September in 1923, and he died 29 years later. He is deemed one of the most influential and significant American songwriters and singers of the 20th century. Although he was taken from the world too soon, his impact was undeniable. He recorded 35 singles, with all of them reaching the top ten in the Billboard Country & Western Best Sellers chart. In fact, 11 of them hit the top spot. Many people deem him the King of Country Music. So, what better way to celebrate International Country Music Day than to listen to some of his most songs? This includes the likes of Your Cheatin’ Heart, Hey, Good Looking, Why Don’t You Love Me, and Lovesick Blues.

How to celebrate International Country Music Day

This is a vibrant event that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. In order to fully embrace the fun of International Country Music Day, it is important to look the part. Dress to impress in a pair of jeans or denim skirt teamed with a gingham shirt and, of course, a pair of cowboy boots and a cowboy hat to complete the look.

If you are not a massive fan of country music, International Country Music Day is the perfect opportunity for you to find out more about this genre of music. There are some truly incredible country artists, and with YouTube and music listening apps available today, it is easier than ever before to listen to some of their creations. Some of the best artists to start your country music listening experience with include Merle Haggard, Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, Loretta Lynn, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Dolly Parton. You may want to listen to some of the more modern-day country music stars, such as Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Kenny Chesney, or Shania Twain.

Another way to celebrate International Country Music Day is to learn a country music instrument. There are many different types of instruments that are used in country music. This includes the acoustic guitar, fiddle, drums, dobro, bass, banjo, and autoharp. The accordion and harmonica are also widely used. We’re sure the guitar may be one of the first instruments that spring to mind for many people reading this. You can probably envision someone on the stage, with their cowboy hat and boots, and a guitar in hand.

The good news is that you can find online music lessons for any instrument today, so you should have no problem learning the instrument of your choice. The best way to find a good website for online learning is to read reviews that have been left, both by previous users as well as experts in the music industry. This will give you a great insight into the website and whether it is right for you. Needless to say, if you come across a lot of negative comments, you know it is not worth checking out.

The next thing you need to look at is the way the lessons are presented. Are they in written format? Or, are demonstration videos available? A lot of people prefer the latter as it gives them the ability to see how the instrument should be played visually. You will also want to make sure that there is plenty of learning material available so that you never get bored or run out of lessons to enjoy. You should also look for a website that is fun and keeps you motivated. Finally, value for money is a must. There are free resources available, but you will probably need to pay if you want something that has everything you need to learn the instrument in question effectively.

It is also worth doing a quick search online to see if there are any events that are going on in your area on International Country Music Day. You will often find that there are a number of festivals that take place on this date around the world. Plus, a lot of restaurants and clubs will pay tribute to country music with a special setlist. If you can’t find a country music event going on in your area, why not host your own party for family and friends?

There are also a number of great movies that we would suggest watching on International Country Music Day if you are looking for more of a laidback way to celebrate this day. This includes Coal Miner’s Daughter, which is a film about one of the world’s most loved country singers and songwriters; Loretta Lynn. Another great film to watch is Tender Mercies.

This film is not based on anyone famous. Instead, it is about a character called Mac Sledge, who is played by Robert Duvall. Mac is a recovering albeit washed-up alcoholic and country singer who wants to make a new start in a small town in Texas. The film truly is a spectacular one, with Duvall winning a Best Actor award at the 1984 Academy Awards for his performance. Other films that are worth a mention include Honkytonk Man, Crazy Heart, Pure Country, Honeysuckle Rose, Walk the Line, Songwriter, The Thing Called Love, and Songcatcher. So, get the popcorn in, and spend the day binging on the best country music-inspired films from over the years!

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rabbitcruiser · 2 years

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World Music Day

From Beethoven to Taylor Swift, there’s music for everyone. Revisit your old favorites or discover new artists from different cultures on World Music Day.

There’s nothing in the world like the sound of your favorite song coming on, it just gets right into your head and your body and makes you move. Or maybe it takes you on a journey to a faraway place and time, where you languish in a memory of times gone by and people who are no longer present. Some of our favorite songs can lift us up out of depression and worry, and make an otherwise horrible day suddenly seem like it’s not so bad. World Music Day celebrates music in all its forms and the impact it’s had on the world and the human spirit.

World Music Day is for everybody to enjoy

Have you ever put on your headphones, hit play on an upbeat tune and waltzed down the street as if you were in a movie? You’re not alone, everybody has done it (they’re just too afraid to admit it!). Music has the ability to lift your spirits even when you don’t feel like getting out of bed that day. Why shouldn’t there be an entire day to celebrate the wonders of music? World Music Day needs to be celebrated far and wide without a doubt! Next time you’re in a bit of a funk, crank up your favorite song (close your curtains) and dance like nobody’s watching. It’s a soul soothing activity that should always be your go to saviour!

World Music Day is free and full of fun!

The best thing about World Music Day is that it is completely free to celebrate. No matter what kind of music you love you can take part for free and you can get the whole family involved. It is the perfect opportunity to try playing a brand-new instrument or listen to a type of music that you wouldn’t normally have on your playlist.

Every type of musician, whether you are young, old, new or a seasoned professional can embrace world music day with friends, family and even strangers!

Last year more than one thousand cities all over the world celebrated World Music Day, so why don’t you take this opportunity to do it to? Anybody can make music; it doesn’t matter how good you are. If you are the type of person who sings in the shower, why not use this opportunity to showcase your talents? Even the most tone deaf people can take this day to sing their hearts out and celebrate the beauty and power of music!

World Music Day originally launched several decades ago in France. In 1982 the Ministry of Culture in France developed a clever idea to celebrate the wonders of music. They wanted free, live music to be available to everybody no matter what their heritage or background. Usually you have to pay for tickets to music festivals, but not with World Music Day!

The many benefits of listening to music

Music is not only a fantastic creative outlet, but it can also have many health benefits. When you listen to a particular song it can bring back a happy memory or make you feel energized. Studies suggest that listening to music can have a number of positive effects on your health and mental wellbeing. As well as enhancing your performance of exercise, it can also provide a huge amount of comfort. Exercise has also been proven to reduce anxiety and listening to relaxing music can also decrease stress levels. So if you are looking for a mood boosting activity, why not celebrate World Music Day and let all of your troubles rush away from your mind instantly?

History of World Music Day

Music has existed for as long as mankind has found its voice, and quite possibly before. Every culture of the world has its own form of music, as distinct and unique to its area as language and cuisine. In the western world, we are familiar only with scales, known as the diatonic scale which should be familiar to anyone who took music classes or choir in school. But this is not the only or even the first scale that music can use.

There’s the chromatic scale, which has 12 notes instead of the 7, and the octatonic scale, which has 8 notes, but these are just the beginning. In every part of the world, there are different scales and musical formats used, and these create a form of music that has its own signature. Then when you add in the cultural themes, the variety of instruments, and the forms of voice singing that can go along with it, music is a truly endless adventure. World Music Day celebrates this adventure and those that dare to take it.

How to celebrate World Music Day

The best way to celebrate World Music Day is to spend the day listening to all your old favorites, and if you’re truly feeling adventurous start exploring YouTube for music from different cultures. You can explore Finnish and Hungarian, Italian and Mongolian, and then start digging into folk music. With sources like these, it’s easier than ever to explore the panorama of musical experiences the world has to offer, and you can do it all from the comfort of your own home. Of course, you could always pick up an instrument and start adding your own voice to the choir!

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rabbitcruiser · 2 years

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