Week 2: 16 - 20 April 2012

Topics (Theory): Dm7 and Music Notation Written Test

Reflection Question: What are the functions of music in society?

Music and society are always related. Music reflects on how society is formed. For example, music and society are always related. Music reflects on how society is formed. For example, starting in the late 20th century the development of music recording techniques has revolutionized to the extent which most people have different access to music. Hence, nowadays all age groups are able to access all kinds of music 24 hours a day.

Music is also a powerful media and in some circumstances, society uses music in different attempts. Music is powerful even at the extent of social group because it facilitates communication which goes beyond words; the meaning and messages in music are able to be shared to different groups of people. Music also gives identities to each culture and country.

Moreover, music is able to induce multiple responses, including physiology, movement, mood, emotion, cognitive, and behavior. Wide range of human functions are included as well. It would be difficult to predict specific effects of certain piece of music to any individual because there are different ways of music processing by brain.

Music is also well known as treatment without medicine. Music is now used for therapy. Therapy using music refers to listening to the music itself or composing music, or even it could involve both of them. Therapy using music have been explored extensively with particular groups of patients, especially the elderly, those with brain damage, and those with persistent pain. Music therapy has also been used to promote appropriate behavior in vulnerable group and enhance the quality of life of those who cannot be helped medically.

Instrument class

I tried to apply the music notation learned during the theory session using my instrument. I started the practice by playing F major scale using different beat (1/4, 1/3, 1/2). Then, I practiced playing F Major 7th which consists of F, G#, B and D. At the beginning, I encountered difficulty in playing F Major 7th proven by I kept accidentally playing C Major 7th instead. However, I was able to play it fluently because I stayed longer at the instrument class even though the recess time has come. In addition, I also practiced playing C Major 7th and C7. It was not difficult to play both chords.

Practice videos
F Major Scale, FM7, F7, and Fm7

I practiced playing the scale and chords because I just once again learned it during the theory class, and my instrument teacher also taught me how to apply it in flute. I played it fluently and I did not make any mistakes, however I still have to practice for the other scales and chords.

Smile (First 16 Bars) - 3rd Practice

I once again practiced the first 16 bars before proceeding to the next bars of the song. I feel that I've done a lot of improvement since last week. I blown the flute so that the sound is clear. It is just I took breathe too often so the playing doesn't sound very smooth. In order to improve it, I will practice my breathing.