tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144933152012-02-02T23:15:29.037-08:00A blog of six teacher/author/developers of music materials for use online.David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.comBlogger1211100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-9844044426316074652012-02-02T22:51:00.000-08:002012-02-02T22:51:40.957-08:00

This most recent move by Komen to defund Planned Parenthood is disturbing. How is it different from the Taliban who show no respect for women. To me this is just a symbolic burka for American women. Those old white men in congress who think they know best are no better than those Afghan butchers killing women in a stadium for entertainment. I'm getting rid of all my pink tennis balls!

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-50744576815445775722012-01-22T19:31:00.000-08:002012-01-22T19:31:45.317-08:00

I found myself in a Unitarian Universalist service this morning as a result of my new granddaughter's dedication. The minister's offering was on the value of a religious left. It was actually wonderful to hear someone in public pronounce unapologetically liberal ideas. It became obvious over time that these Unitarians must be ever vigilant to not allow any creed to slip into their covenant. It

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-48229449233037046532011-12-29T20:11:00.000-08:002011-12-29T20:11:03.000-08:00

I wrote earlier that I think the best way to stop outsourcing is to unionize the Chinese. So now we need a pushback on the voter restriction efforts of the retropublicans. My solution there is equally simple. Start by making the reception of any government subsidy due in November only available after they vote in November at the voting booth. In its full implementation, any receipt of any

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-66266612747486601692011-12-28T19:33:00.000-08:002011-12-28T20:05:16.417-08:00

I have now rationed my TV time. The political cable shows just regurgitate the same fodder hour by hour, show by show. It is of no value. The reason to support a candidate is reduced to the smallest and ugliest of sound bites. Who would vote for the "most conservative" candidate? I mean, really? Isn't the conservative mission to preserve what was and resist change? How can that be of any

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-25015178043067602702011-12-09T20:26:00.000-08:002011-12-09T20:26:04.941-08:00

Grrrrrrr...... I find I am now paying too much attention to all of this. Whenever a life or death event passes it so often proves to be of little consequence in the long run. When I was young and busy like most of Americans and only casually aware of the traumas going on in politics I might have been in a healthier relationship to all of this. But for some reason now it seems that it is

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-44027680542803136342011-11-30T11:32:00.000-08:002011-11-30T11:36:53.462-08:00

I am taking a course right now through Boston University for my Masters in Music Education. The course I'm taking is Foundations of Music Education: History and Philosophy. For some reason, I preferred the Foundations of Music Education: Psychology and Sociology course I previously took. Oh well, that's besides the point.For my course, this week we're addressing ethics in music education.

Kristin Vredevoogdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12488578373889972769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-48956419958588927562011-11-09T22:47:00.000-08:002011-11-09T22:47:41.378-08:00

I have an admission.  I am forgetting how to spell. Seriously. I think it is a real problem.  I write (pen to paper) so seldom that I have lost my ability to correct my own spelling.   I am dependent on spell check and that wonderfully informative dotted red line that appears to alert me of my spelling foibles. Interesting also that i know how to spell foible but just yesterday had the darndest

Beth Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17296019366442469473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-55308437194718706452011-10-30T22:53:00.001-07:002011-10-30T22:53:36.927-07:00

A random list of videos from youtube that might strike your fancy.

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-47957080158425980902011-10-27T20:19:00.000-07:002011-10-27T20:19:13.874-07:00

Just a couple of recommendations: To bring jobs back home why don't we work to unionize the Chinese and Indian workers (eastern) An investment opportunity -- buy into guillotines (The French might have survived if they could have just keep secret how rich they really were)--Occupy the World It just isn't that difficult. Dave

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-63989992890921699062011-10-05T21:48:00.001-07:002011-10-05T21:48:29.605-07:00

I'm just completing the book Swarm and have had a major deja vu. In the 1990s I had many lunches with a visual artist/programmer/friend designing an artificially intelligent evolving world that would generate art of any medium. I didn't realize I was designing my own swarm. This will be the first installment of a description of this art world in hopes that I might trigger an interest in others

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-13034288176142221852011-09-28T23:13:00.000-07:002011-09-28T23:17:22.494-07:00

So here is the link: Hire a friend for a day Let me know if you would participate in a day to hire. If it were big enough we could put millions of folk to work for at least one day. Who needs congress?? Dave

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-41543689074387844482011-09-28T22:31:00.000-07:002011-09-28T22:32:29.690-07:00

I am thinking about polling for those who might like to create a "hire your friend for a day" as a small contribution to the employment problem. I need a poll to sense the interest. Here is a link to a poll as a trial: Are polls good? Dave

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-87597873822969721742011-08-08T09:43:00.000-07:002011-08-10T05:49:53.676-07:00

I am a part-time cloth diaperer, I compost, I heat my home with a pellet stove and I mow my lawn with a reel mower. I am part of the growing group of parents who are trying to teach our children how to create less of a carbon footprint, consume less and respect the earth more. I am actually in a mom’s group called “Mindful Parenting,” in which members discuss where they got the latest natural

Heather Rebahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02422909330453817494noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-78089272349511732892011-07-30T22:23:00.000-07:002011-07-30T22:37:16.728-07:00

Went to a memorial service today. Gordon Baker. The family was there to celebrate this wonderful life. I had not been in this community for more than 20 years. I knew a fraction of those there. I did know the major participants. What a feeling to be the next generation to "go". The entire audience was above 50 but the range still seemed extreme. There were those who did not recognize me (

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-91241234550512658052011-07-13T06:29:00.000-07:002011-07-13T06:54:23.263-07:00

We flew up to Spokane and spent the night near the airport. Can't remember what it looked like -- that spectacular. Next, our friends from next door picked us up and we drove to Seaside Oregon. We were on the 7th floor looking out over the pool to a huge sandy beach. Did you know that this is where Lewis and Clark ran out of land? There is a statue of them at the beach looking forlorn-- S__t

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-59485121076624854802011-07-01T21:48:00.001-07:002011-07-02T11:39:31.279-07:00

Happy New Month.This is the birthday of my oldest daughter -- always an enlightening perspective. She is on the East coast and should really be out of sight, out of mind. However, the world of technology has made this less than a reality. When I was her age, it cost so much to make a long distance call we just didn't. Now with universal phone accounts and the amazing reality of iChat, we are

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-818904379701426492011-02-04T22:43:00.000-08:002011-02-05T14:22:04.061-08:00

Business model for Education -- A pipe dreamMy entire career the boards of administration (mostly successful business persons) have been convinced that there is a business model for mass education.They have never been successful but they continue to preach the possibility.The difference between service in business and service in education is that there is no control over the top line (gross

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1647188000707637942011-01-11T19:59:00.000-08:002011-12-09T20:16:12.362-08:00

Gentlemen's Alley - Down the center between two non aggressive players Rope-a-Dope -- A net ball that runs a significant distance along the top of the net Star Trek Ball -- A ball that veers off of a mishit to a point just over the net only inches from the outside line. A ball that goes where not other ball has gone before Zenith Ball -- A ball that reaches its zenith exactly at the point it

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-30194274467483963232011-01-04T22:19:00.000-08:002011-01-04T22:25:27.409-08:00

Now that we have the new tax breaks for the rich I have tried to ask everyone who have received this break "How many people have you hired?" It looks like they only have money; they do not have any intent on hiring someone. I would love to have a million dollars a year -- I would love to hire someone at 50K a year to just make good things happen.I hope all these wealthy congressmen decline the

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-46548031465426773922010-12-22T13:46:00.000-08:002010-12-22T14:07:30.449-08:00

I have been thinking about "college". Is college all it has been built up to be? Think of the premier colleges that cost 50K a year in tuition. What do you get for the 200K, 4 year experience? Could you get a "higher education" some other way? Is the certificate or diploma really that valuable? A college education does not insure a quality job. How many historians are needed? How many

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-29158324911043922792010-10-12T21:54:00.000-07:002010-10-12T22:24:15.336-07:00

Well the blog has been silent (for an number of reasons - mostly mine). I have moved away from the political arguments that populate the airways, they are far from intellectual. Passion, although a powerful persuader, it is an untruth when based on blind emotion or fear (ugly).I have been a music teacher and in that capacity a musical director. The job of recruiting is vital to the success of

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-17861632014066321042010-09-01T19:54:00.000-07:002010-09-01T19:55:28.823-07:00

Who's Economy?All parties arguing "the economy" disagree in great measure. How could these experts be at such odds? It is my theory that there is not "an economy" but at least three economies in a macro sense.There is the investor class most interested in their wealth and building wealth. Great fun and exciting. Creates a great sense of superiority.There is the middle class which has no

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-48324299017594730712010-08-08T22:01:00.000-07:002010-08-08T22:30:54.586-07:00

I have been in music ensembles from a size of just two members to over 120 (marching band). As much as the American Dream says that with equal support and backing anyone can do whatever they want we as musicians know this does not work. (This is also an espoused line from Disney and children networks around the world.) In my experience in music groups it only takes seconds of playing together

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-51860060725697550012010-06-27T21:31:00.000-07:002010-06-27T21:41:37.441-07:00

Watching the increase of the need to educate those who need to expand their future potential and the education industry that feeds on them is becoming more and more out of control.Just like the ATM, the banks said it would be cheaper for the consumer because there would be no attendant needed to make the transaction. WRONG! We now pay huge fees for this service.Education now sells eBooks. The

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-27252329027302323342010-06-21T21:18:00.001-07:002010-06-21T21:21:47.763-07:00

I agree totally; however there is a solution. Teachers of music theory need to talk. We had three music theory teacher when we developed these courses and we, through discussion, came to consensus on what was important for the student to learn and when it was important to learn it.Most schools have a single theory teacher working in a vacuum -- going down silly paths.Don

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-18979218195433488212010-06-15T22:28:00.001-07:002010-06-15T23:01:51.630-07:00

One of the things we have finally come to realize is that the fact that a great unified theory of music theory will probably never exist. We have for many years had an online music theory sequence that we taught successfully. Although all the other classes we have developed online seem acceptable to teachers across the nation with only minor personal changes the theory sequence is not so

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-58876941256263477762010-03-25T21:55:00.000-07:002010-03-25T22:01:11.501-07:00

With all the hoopla about insurance reform I wonder how we lost sight of HealthCare.I don't care about people having insurance as much as I wish that everyone had health care. Insurance just means there is a for profit entity that wants to pull profit from those that need health care. Single payer buts all this aside. The argument on this last bill was to kill health care and re-establish an

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-3480744685130612772010-03-01T20:51:00.000-08:002010-03-01T21:05:04.256-08:00

I have an opinion, in fact, everyone I know has an opinion. The question is "What is the value of anyone's opinion?" Well mine is important and everyone else -- well, not really.Let's take the argument of redistribution of the wealth. My opinion -- it is time to redistribute the wealth to the middle and lower social economic groups.Their opinion -- Let's keep the status quo -- keep the

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-54181032194040781342010-02-04T08:05:00.000-08:002010-02-04T08:22:36.097-08:00

I did the juggling act growing up. The math, English, foreign language, honor roll, the whole bit. Then I came home, did homework, and went to the theatre, piano or voice lessons, or dance class. Then it was home for more homework, sometimes until very late. I did the zero, early and extra period so I could fit in all my college prep. classes and do choir. I was lucky enough to have

Kristin Vredevoogdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12488578373889972769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-82295151414774294772009-12-06T20:56:00.000-08:002009-12-21T10:12:06.316-08:00

Needless to say I'm done with the partisan approach to settling our problems. It is truly hard to find voices on either side that can keep their cool long enough to thoughtfully present their own arguments. So I would like to find a new center for dialog that includes both views that can be appreciated from both sides. I'm not talking about the wimpy center of independents who are more

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1859332979989144482009-12-05T21:21:00.000-08:002009-12-06T20:56:16.456-08:00

Recently, on a cruise of the Caribbean I asked a fellow passenger what we should expect from the entertainment when those my generation and younger dominated the passenger list. His response? -- This music is timeless and will always be a part of sophisticated entertainment. I was listening to tired old standards played by musicians who did not love them. Well, I just went to the Trans

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-88690456159583740922009-10-16T20:45:00.000-07:002009-10-16T21:01:44.350-07:00

Can you believe the partisan conflict on almost all issues? The war(s), health care reform (not insurance reform), who should have money and who does not deserve to have money, etc. Don't tax me but give me government services (example: MediCare, clean streets, fire departments, police, etc). Wow! what confusion. I asked one of my conservative friends why they are so angry. He responded "us

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-46994292506093170622009-02-04T10:17:00.000-08:002009-02-04T10:20:05.793-08:00

This was a response to an article about the need for merit pay and Charter Schools. Really !Who will teach the unteachable? The criminals? I had them in my class. How do you measure success? Good grades? Good citizens? I would love to see what the religious (Charter Schools) would do with an atheist. Should they deny funding rather than accepting an atheist? How about the unmotivated?

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-49407198568059723132008-12-05T19:16:00.000-08:002008-12-05T19:18:29.547-08:00

This is an article recently published in the FACCC Journal.Imagine the instability at the point of the big bang -- transition at the speed of light.I have been at smaller big bang moments in which an idea gives birth to a new endeavor that requires a new process. Over time as the process grows and thrives I've watched the progenitors gradually pushed aside because of their creative sloppiness

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-58901489791278718092008-09-01T15:28:00.000-07:002008-09-01T15:29:02.938-07:00

We are a part of a great ensemble. Our instrument chimes at just the right time to add our voice in the texture of the symphony. One thread in the tapestry of life that clings artfully to those around it through a series of interweaving loops, wraps, and knots. A fiber of gold next to a fiber of green; blue and yellow blending with red and brown. The richness of the tapestry, the depth and

Beth Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17296019366442469473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-89305255640410464532008-08-17T19:57:00.000-07:002008-08-17T20:12:47.398-07:00

Dave and I just got back from Minneapolis at a MERLOT conference and Dave raised the idea that this national group of educators covering most disciplines in higher education should be a policy making group. Why not produce a Merlot report on the state of education in America. The discussion moved to possible topics. Dave hit it out of the park. He wants to investigate the child that is left

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-3391408263599120792008-07-24T20:31:00.000-07:002008-07-24T20:41:34.181-07:00

Listening to Obama's speech in Berlin today I remember the same kind of inviting global perspective years ago when I was in college. I was in the marching band at Berkeley and we were having a bonfire rally (yes for the football team). I was back stage in the outdoor theater waiting to go in. Just a few feet away was Bobbie Kennedy. I could feel the heat of this man.He came out and spoke

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-35979453633001910702008-07-21T12:33:00.000-07:002008-07-21T12:47:29.750-07:00

The World Music online course is developing well. The main authors are such pros. Their expertises do not parallel as much as overlap. One has taught the course for several years and one editor/author has a honest love for the musics and cultures and has lived in many of these countries. The third is a world authority in several cultures and is a complete academic. Dave and I are essentially

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-76016825913326194892008-06-11T06:53:00.000-07:002008-12-09T02:57:54.301-08:00

Who would have thunk it. We (Dave and I and wives and friends) are in Steamboat Springs, CO just to experience the hot springs and the high country. At 5 am it started to snow. It is June and was 80 degrees yesterday. Love it -- snowed in June. So what do you do in June when it snows? You make little snowmen and put them on the railing of the balcony. That is what you do.Don

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-37530407462651713502008-06-04T20:49:00.000-07:002008-06-04T21:02:01.602-07:00

This year Don, Jeff and I organized with some insider students a secret concert. To attend you had to figure out when and where it was to be. We tried to deconstruct the normal composer/performer roles as well as redefine venue to include electronic media.Basically, the multimedia students became the composers for the music students who worked with them to draft definitions for musical

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-16820497773873267222008-06-04T20:41:00.000-07:002008-06-04T21:06:52.465-07:00

I have been thinking about starting a think tank (now that I am retired and dangerous as Lisa says). It should be an educational think tank that is free from the pressures of tenure, bureaucracy, educational fads, program building, or career building. Look what has come out of political groups that have failed from the beginning -- no child left behind. What a disaster. I have lived through

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-91313187801198014162008-06-02T21:49:00.000-07:002008-06-02T21:59:22.398-07:00

Before I retired and now, after it has begun, I faced one question over and over again."What are you going to do when you retire?" Not having a great response to this I kept saying that "I will continue to produce online course and authoring some of them as well.""For fun?""Yes and for money." I would respond.Well I am now sitting around thinking of what I will really do now that I don't have to

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-58723729785559511452008-05-31T19:22:00.000-07:002008-05-31T19:26:05.228-07:00

Yes, Both Don and I are retiring at the same time. Weird! The most memorable moment was when we were being reprocessed as part time teachers (now that we have retired from full time teaching). We had to show our Social Security Card and a Passport to prove that we were citizens for Home Land Security. I guess you are a lot more dangerous as a part time teacher than a full time teacher.

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-57469171074449533552008-05-31T09:15:00.000-07:002008-05-31T09:18:50.182-07:00

Well, I have been retired for one week now. Interesting perspective. I had a dream the other night and it was all about organizing a student recruiting activity in Studio A. This is crazy -- I don't even have a key to the new building any more.Looking for a new vision I sat down at the piano and played a Duke Ellington song "In a Sentimental Mood." It was really enjoyable. I am going to do

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-62531600650682234812008-05-12T01:07:00.000-07:002008-05-12T01:52:31.898-07:00

I first heard it when I entered the post office. Someone was humming a song I looked, and the young woman had no earphones. She was actually making music on her own with no external prompts. Music was springing forth from her, and I recognized the tune. Surely a kindred spirit! How long has it been since I have heard just a regular person make music? We hum or tap along with some other

jmmbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16114257567408162393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-36514884184247331892008-05-09T21:22:00.000-07:002008-05-09T21:26:15.311-07:00

Weird,I just went into the lab at school and the students there were all working on something different. They all had different needs. I floated around from problem to problem. We all know that teaching that is effective -- its all about sharing. After a little time the students were sharing with each other and did not need me as much. Those who gave received more than those who received.

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-38539718772198978302008-04-11T20:55:00.000-07:002008-04-11T21:04:21.683-07:00

Heather,Why should the elephants have all the fun? Creating art has been made to be such a mystery. I wish I could draw (maybe I can), I can sing, play instruments, I wish I could dance (maybe I can). It is so amazing that the elephants do not see the "art" of the experts because they would probably stop from embarrassment. Why do we spend so much money on the art of elephants? (Speak for

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-84976789350314370642008-04-09T17:25:00.000-07:002008-04-09T17:54:55.172-07:00

There is a remarkable YouTube video that shows elephants in Thailand painting self portraits. It is a must see.Zoo trainers in Thailand have actually taught elephants to paint pictures of flowers and portraits of other elephants.  Zoo trainers in America and elsewhere are following suit, however many trainers here prefer to let their elephants paint "abstract" art.  These portraits are selling

hmmm...noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-760870546679126132008-04-04T21:41:00.000-07:002008-04-04T21:52:13.490-07:00

It is interesting that we have candidates that are new to our electoral system. I don't care if one is half black/half white or the other a woman. I want to know if they can sing, dance, be expressive. Obama is a great speaker but can he sing? Are his words his own? Don't they all have speech writers? It would be wonderful to see a candidate be openly expressive to the masses. To much to

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-84857653516250072082008-03-28T19:38:00.000-07:002008-03-28T19:46:55.839-07:00

A sound recording was found that predates Edison.New York Times Article This device did not play back the music only record a visual symbol of the sound.A quote in that article:“There is a yawning epistemic gap between us and Léon Scott, because he thought that the way one gets to the truth of sound is by looking at it,” said Jonathan Sterne, a professor at McGill University in Montreal and the

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-18369802750024844002008-03-22T15:18:00.000-07:002008-03-22T15:30:18.999-07:00

This last week has been more than interesting. If you take the delivery techniques of all concerned, they are across the map. Hillary has a harshness to it -- maybe just her voice on a mic. McCain is so soporific he could be talking about anything to anyone -- even when it is about winning a war. Obama has the eloquence we have not heard in many years. I would love to see how listeners would

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-20079872654964235212008-03-20T22:46:00.000-07:002008-03-20T23:13:02.429-07:00

I'm watching the Sarah Brightman special and she has a great voice but so often sings in this microphone enhanced intimacy that I find absolutely boring. She is singing in St. Stevenskirche. The setting is great but the music doesn't live up to the setting. The human voice is amazing and when it is compromised by artificial amplification we lose its magical human connection. Its like the

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-15322943106712330322008-03-19T18:08:00.000-07:002008-03-19T18:13:29.719-07:00

I'm currently listening to the soundtrack from the movie Across the Universe. If you haven't seen the movie yet, I would recommend it. I was intrigued. It takes Beatles songs and through different orchestrations, harmonies, and performances, fits them into its storyline. Like Moulin Rouge, I was impressed with the orchestrations and how the music coincided with the storyline and aesthetic

Kristin Vredevoogdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12488578373889972769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-82620678347705524792008-02-13T14:19:00.000-08:002008-02-13T14:27:02.406-08:00

Alright, this blog is authored by five musicians and one dancer. I, as the outspoken dancer, am willing to begin the discussion, but I leave it up to the experts to duke it out.Three words. . . "Yes We Can"Check it out if you haven't seen it yet. Regardless of political affiliation, it is well worth experiencing the invisible yet tangible power of music.http://my.barackobama.com/page/invite/

Beth Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17296019366442469473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-37467054768954501362008-02-06T16:57:00.000-08:002008-02-06T17:02:28.167-08:00

This spring Dave and I decided to migrate from ETUDES (a Learning Management System) that a friend of mine had written to Moodle which is an open source LMS. Well the temptation to revise and update the content at the same time have overtaken us. Well we are close. Every time we tackle such a huge migration we say "for the last time". Well, after doing this kind of thing so many times I think

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-32212295220592197902008-02-03T21:37:00.001-08:002008-02-03T21:44:07.513-08:00

I remember when living in England that I was teased for my white socks. I think more than the wardrobe is the sense of entitlement that most Americans have while traveling. There have been many times while traveling in Europe that I have been absolutely embarrassed to be American. I remember one woman in a train in Italy almost twenty years ago complaining to my mother that no one knows how to

Kristin Vredevoogdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12488578373889972769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-30735644207988392852008-01-04T21:26:00.001-08:002008-01-04T21:32:01.884-08:00

That last post was from Beth. She just got back from Spain. Dave is now in Italy. The dollar is so weak that essentials cost more than you want to know. I have not traveled to Europe for nearly thirty years. The response to us has obviously changed. There are guidelines for travelers to not "look American". It looks like this view of Americans has really shifted in the last ten years.At

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-38626491512734915902008-01-03T07:15:00.000-08:002008-01-03T07:53:05.694-08:00

Traveling abroad is the best way to confirm your sense of self and heritage. Home becomes a powerful concept when you are 9 hours ahead and eating nothing but Iberian Ham morning, noon and night (Yes, its novelty wore off after the second breakfast).The unnerving part for me was everyone’s ability to peg me as “American” on first glance. Granted I am 5’11, fair skinned with light brown hair and

Beth Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17296019366442469473noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-29113389915437428462007-11-24T12:48:00.000-08:002007-11-24T13:33:24.434-08:00

As one of the Millennials. . . I was born on the cusp, just inside the millennial generation (you can do the math). And, I am teaching in essence my own generation at the college level. This both gives me insight into the student perspective and poses an interesting challenge for me, because I am at times trapped by the same conditioning.First of all, who are the Millennials? We are a generally

Beth Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17296019366442469473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-73586521449713598152007-11-05T20:42:00.000-08:002007-11-05T20:45:55.625-08:00

I can see it now. I have pols to match everyone in Spinal Tap:Nigel -- Bush (mine goes to 11)Drummers that spontaneously combust -- GonzalesInterfering girlfriend -- HillaryBass players with cucumbers in their pants -- ChenyIncompetent manager -- PelosiJust another dysfunctional band.Dave

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-43187640382196672362007-11-04T15:40:00.000-08:002007-11-04T15:48:46.592-08:00

We are in the middle of a political season. The Dems are all attacking Hillary and the Reps are trying to deal with the popularity of Ron Paul. It is great entertainment but where is the music? No one has a theme song. There is no melodic motive associated with anyone? Remember the power of Jaws? and that was only two notes. This shows that there are no creatives in this race. At least

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-16267195587539598822007-08-22T22:24:00.000-07:002007-08-22T22:48:10.173-07:00

As someone currently in the twenty something generation, I can say that "rock" tends not to be in heavy rotation on my ipod, instead my music is commonly typified as alternative, electronic or R&B. But, these songs tend to be even less singable than rock! Try emulating the exact descants of any R&B singer-- now try it in a group. You will quickly come to realize that it is a soloist's art form.

Beth Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17296019366442469473noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-24417354828794364532007-08-19T20:09:00.000-07:002007-08-19T20:16:13.647-07:00

I was with Don on the Alaskan cruise and he pointed out the disjuncture between the young players and the music they were required to play. I also wondered if rock was more appropriate for those listening. When I looked around the room I would have to say that rock was certainly the music of those who now populated the cruise line (hence the popularity of the piano bar guy). They had a club

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-88391362106437985182007-08-13T14:30:00.000-07:002007-08-13T14:38:20.569-07:00

After a summer on a cruise in Alaska and directly to New Orleans (wow what a weather contrast) I am back and ready to start the new semester. My teaching schedule will be mostly online -- who would have thought I would be teaching online when I started with orchestra and jazz band over 30 years ago. On the cruise I heard several musicians playing tunes from the Real Book (still after all these

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-29955852222800316632007-07-25T23:01:00.000-07:002007-07-25T23:06:33.672-07:00

What does it mean when you are a dancer and all you want to do is sit?I means. . . sit.And don't make it a five minute "break" with plans to stand up again. Let it feel definitive.You'll stand up again-- if you really want to.

Beth Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17296019366442469473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-21995601509166326442007-07-17T20:04:00.000-07:002007-07-17T20:14:32.017-07:00

Beth's last post should have been created by a musician (she is one so what is my problem?). So I will talk about dancing for those who do not dance. Children bob up and down when they hear music. Many think it is learned behavior from their parents; but, how many parents teach children to dance? They do and then we are all surprised and we dance along to keep them dancing. Beth said they

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-13096371472277298042007-07-01T20:14:00.000-07:002007-07-20T01:15:16.830-07:00

I have just recently completed the book "How to live well without owning a car" by Chris Balish, and I am here to say: I approve. And while his financial and health related points are both wonderful and convincing, the point I found most profound was the argument that living without a car makes you LESS isolated and more connected to the people and the world around you.We often think that having

Beth Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17296019366442469473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-83722840657992016222007-06-26T20:01:00.000-07:002007-06-26T20:10:15.388-07:00

My daughter Beth who is a contributor to this blog is now developing an online course for dance appreciation. It is so interesting to see how dancers see the world differently than musicians. There is, however, one common interest -- dancers and composers and musicians together is the most fun. I produced a concert where composers wrote and performed their music live while the dancers

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-59898578879209967052007-06-07T12:12:00.000-07:002007-06-07T12:19:52.934-07:00

I worry about rock. Its front edge of development seems to always belong to the youth. As each generation gets older it tends to carry its music with them and not necessarily blend into a larger rock repertory. Young people today listen to early rock some but it is probably more out of the nostalgia of their parents rather than their own interest. But the inverse doesn't seem to be true. I

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-60809574993617810812007-03-28T21:08:00.000-07:002007-03-28T21:17:29.423-07:00

News Flash! Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five were just inducted into the Rock and Roll hall of fame as the first hip hop group. In my rock history classes I find that students are not in agreement on the place hip hop has in the canon of rock and roll. Has hip hop even been around long enough to earn a place in a hall of fame? Is rap and hip hop more distinct from rock than R & B was

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-35042205601659629712007-02-26T22:23:00.000-08:002007-02-28T09:58:08.622-08:00

Dave and I attended a wedding where the DJ -- a student of ours years ago. He can really make a party work. The interesting moment was the end the third hour where he played some hard core Hip Hop. On the floor were very young girls and couples in their early 20s. There was only a forceful bass note which never changed and a drum (beat) track. Above it all was rap. The young girls (13 years

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-13645020940344645342007-02-06T08:55:00.000-08:002007-02-06T09:06:05.907-08:00

I watched the Super Bowl half time show and was taken by how well the spectacle so often associated with Prince worked in that setting. After the past overly produced shows from previous years it was nice to have an artist whose musicianship took center stage. Playing guitar in the rain was itself interesting. It was obvious that he was singing and playing live. His musicial authority cut

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-33092956609213321642007-01-20T21:13:00.000-08:002007-01-20T21:24:54.435-08:00

So Dave,Critical thinking is not critical? Then what should it be called -- Linear Thinking? Uni-dimensional thinking? Educational thinking? I agree that there is little critical thinking when driven by adrenaline in a crisis. However, isn’t critical thinking fun? Don’t you just love a committee to busy itself with a mission statement for weeks on end just to realize that said statement is

Donald Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14920169987351747851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-22046018064978281142007-01-20T09:31:00.000-08:002007-01-20T09:32:38.197-08:00

FACCCTS, spring 2004Non-critical reasoning serves as the substrate for most all of the truly important decisions in my life. All the truly hard decisions I’ve made in my life seem to be only secondarily critical. I certainly married my wife because of strong affective reasoning; my protest of the Vietnam war was certainly powered by strong emotional forces; I irrationally give of my time and

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1168535052692111452007-01-11T09:01:00.000-08:002007-01-11T10:09:41.133-08:00

Chaumonde has been working feverishly on learning how to podcast for her classes. This is her first podcast and I thought I would share it with you.

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1166765639696139682006-12-21T21:25:00.000-08:002006-12-21T21:33:59.706-08:00

I see that Dave and Beth are not very argumentative right now. The semester has ended and we are all exhusted. Why? We are aLL dealing with students right now. What is the problem? Can it be that everyone has LIFE PROBLEMS? I think so. In a perfect world, there would be no pressure from 1. What class should I take.2. Do I really need this class.3. How long do I have to do this stuff?4.

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1165035851147933532006-12-01T20:48:00.000-08:002006-12-01T21:04:11.796-08:00

I just watched the last episode of The Office and saw an employee trying to impress a co-worker in any manner possible. At the end of the episode, he was playing banjo and singing in a BGs high range. To all a forced expression.I have always known that talent is a real attractor. True talent is always an attractor but professed talent is weak. I don't know which is more distructive. I

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1163223937993437972006-11-10T21:34:00.000-08:002006-11-10T21:45:38.006-08:00

Martha Graham said "Only through discipline can you attain true freedom." But freedom of what? Freedom from guilt of not doing it right? Freedom from having to practice something over and over? Freedom from getting yelled at? Freedon from others judgement?Now. . . my dog, Maximus, has a little discipline issue. He is in the "puppy adolecent" stage as I like to call it. But, why would he

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1163219527518588582006-11-10T20:19:00.000-08:002006-11-10T20:32:07.530-08:00

Why is it that you can support a team and at the same time "hate" another team and it is OK? For example, I had a student tell me that she hated the Dallas Cowboys because it was the favorite team of her x-boyfriend. Well, I guess this is enough of a reason. But isn't hate one of those intolerant reactions? Not in sports or musical taste. Don you like the Beatles?No!Why?They look stupid.So

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1162611450584572572006-11-03T19:33:00.000-08:002006-11-03T19:37:30.596-08:00

I guess it was inevitable. I read in the L.A. Times that Cobain earned more income posthumously than Elvis! The first rock icon who showed the way to connect music with mass culture has finally been eclipsed. But I guess the real irony is that Cobain -- the king of grunge is really underneath it all a capitalist. So Cobain is now the master of the house. Who's next? A grim thought if you

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1161226805312126242006-10-18T19:49:00.000-07:002006-10-18T20:00:05.396-07:00

So if you are a trained musician you are superior? I posit that anyone who thinks to the same depth in their disciplines is surfing on the same big waves. (Sorry for such a cheap metaphor).I know that the "total" musician is probably the most balanced intellectual (wow! what a conclusion) will surface well above most in our culture. But is there an over balanced individual? Isn't balance

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1161147655821297502006-10-17T21:49:00.000-07:002006-10-17T22:00:55.836-07:00

Some studies at UCLA a few years ago show that formally trained musicians listen mostly from their left brains while untrained listeners use their right brains. It would seem to me that since we all began as untrained musicians we all listened mostly from our right brain (affective). Those of us who studied formally migrated to the left brain (cognitive) as we learned to analyze what we were

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1159590538387821082006-09-29T21:20:00.000-07:002006-09-29T21:28:58.396-07:00

I have heard this over the years as if being analytical about one's music will diminish the excitement or raw expression of playing music. So what is lost when one knows more? Does not knowing about music theory ever become a plus? It is like thinking and speaking with a limited vocabulary. I have found that the more I know the more I can interact with music on so many different levels. I

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1158125641219435592006-09-12T22:27:00.000-07:002006-09-12T22:35:34.013-07:00

So, what music was most prominent on 9/11? What music represented the American spirit and reflected the passion we feel for the tragedy of that day? What I heard most was God Bless America. That disturbs me. When we worry most about the religious zealotry of the middle east should we not promote our own secular independece from religious polity? Why then do we sing a song that stresses God's

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1157865592166970732006-09-09T22:09:00.000-07:002006-09-29T21:33:30.110-07:00

I can hardly believe the new discussion on our campus. It is an email discussion of whether there should be a TV on and the sound up for the students in the cafeteria. Some want to turn it off to better represent the educational goals of "true and worthy discussions" not meaningless programming and commercials. Can you believe this is even important to teachers? They suggest that the TV be

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1156951032823218712006-08-30T08:08:00.000-07:002006-08-30T08:17:13.090-07:00

Well it may have finally happened. Music used to be forced down our throats on albums and later CDs (although some concept albums actually worked). The wildfire of illegal downloads and sharing eventually made the production companies rethink their approach. Apple found the first truly viable solution with its iPod and iTunes. We could actually buy the song we wanted, stay legal and be very

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1155435470568528792006-08-12T19:13:00.000-07:002006-08-12T19:17:50.576-07:00

The fall semester is right around the corner. Beth at Fresno City College and Dave here at MiraCosta along we me are now focused big time to start classes. We have been hoping for renewed strength to find the "talent" and dive in. It is always surprising who shows up with hope in their eyes. It is such a blast to feed the dreams.So all you future rock stars, get in line and work, work,

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1153108559316715292006-07-16T20:50:00.000-07:002006-07-16T20:55:59.330-07:00

I am surprised that I usually have so much to say and I find that this blog is begging for input and I sit with a blank mind. Right now, I am teaching a course for teachers who plan on teaching online. In the class is one of the pioneers of online teaching. He started teaching online the same year I did. He wrote one of the best Learning Management Systems to deliver his courses. I use it.

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1150775493425808452006-06-19T20:45:00.000-07:002006-06-19T20:51:35.250-07:00

I flew to Hawaii last week and tried to pass the boredom of the flight by actually reading the airline magazine. And unexpectedly I learned something that underpinned my belief that American has lost its voice. The three most sung songs were listed:1) Happy Birthday2) Auld Lang Syne3) For He's a Jolly Good FellowSo... what does that tell us? That on any given day there are probably hundreds

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1150141359903651572006-06-12T12:29:00.000-07:002006-06-12T12:42:39.913-07:00

Thank you for having me as a part of this blog. It is such an honor to be interacting with two people I admire so much. And I admire them for the usual and the unusual elements of their personality. For instance their ability to be completely absurd. A lost art form for many people. Imagine: Hawaii, a light blue Chrysler Van, the Megill twins at the helm driving around the beautiful island

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1149831750806807262006-06-08T22:37:00.000-07:002006-06-08T22:42:30.816-07:00

Well, we have a new blog member. Beth Megill (yes she is related) teaches Dance at Fresno City College. She has taught at the University of Wisconsin in Stevens Point. She travels all over the world and works in Mexico with a dance company each summer. She is the only dance choreographer that is conscious of the elements of music that I know. So she will be putting in entries from a new

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1149268563007845702006-06-02T10:11:00.000-07:002006-06-02T10:16:03.020-07:00

The site of the music building has been leveled and they are preparing to pour some cement. Dave and I Seway past the site just to see what is happening. The hole makes no sense to my eye - but Hey! I'm a musician. They say 15 more months before we can make any music in the "new building" (which of course is just growing.)Don

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1147844252643141292006-05-16T22:30:00.000-07:002006-05-16T22:37:32.656-07:00

The crunch is on. Students now feel the need to produce. It is amazing how those who learn over time receive the most. The crammers are trying to produce but I know that they will not retain a fraction what they are dealing with at the moment of their need. How does anyone know what is important until they "feel the need?" Crammers have no sense of need except to "pass the course." I wonder

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1146456344155520552006-04-30T21:01:00.000-07:002006-04-30T21:05:44.166-07:00

I was just wondering how much music in the rock tradition has a sense of calendar. I know that there are some Christmas songs, a few patriotic songs (Born in the USA is not one of them). There is an entire anti-politicial tradition. But nothing I can think of for the liturgical calendar (Praise songs excluded). Just try and envision a Punk Valentine song, or Easter? Hmmm . . . something to

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1145253459805263212006-04-16T22:52:00.000-07:002006-04-16T22:57:39.820-07:00

Well, it looks like taxes for the middle class will remain the same. Don't you wish you made 500K a year. What savings you could have with such a salary. Regardless, there is now pressure to increase the fee for a download from iTunes. Is it because the Beatles now want to be a part of this revenue? I say, haven't we heard the Beatles enough? The songs do not change and they sound the same

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1144988993998926312006-04-13T21:24:00.000-07:002006-04-13T21:29:54.016-07:00

The music majors have just finished intervals and are moving onto chords and figured bass notation. For those that have survived, they now see all the elements of music theroy they have been fighting coming together. In fact, as they begin writing music in four parts (like four singers at the same time) they see it all happening. One of my students sees it all now and says "it was worth it" to

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1144634136147487402006-04-09T18:51:00.000-07:002006-04-09T18:55:36.176-07:00

Well, the old music building on campus has finally been pulled down. The choral room was all concrete steps (to rehearse on). This room was on the poor soil side of the hill and it looks like it was so heavy it just broke the building in half. It took them forever to break it up and get it out of there. 30+ years of teaching in that building has officially ended. Now we are looking for the

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1143434355663728912006-03-26T20:34:00.000-08:002006-03-26T20:39:15.676-08:00

I met with my honors section today after we listened to our college orchestra play compositions by African American composers. Do you think that soon we will have rock stars trying to write for the orchestra to seek legitimacy in the high art culture? Didn't McCartney try that and didn't he get knighted? It seems to me that the classical music shell is a bad fit for the more oral traditions of

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1143047100079327242006-03-22T09:01:00.000-08:002006-03-22T09:05:00.126-08:00

Here I am on Spring Break and I have onliine students who bug me because I am not online at least twice a day to "teach". I guess Spring Break is really Time to Catch Up (TCU). Rather than going to FL there is a small percentage of students consummed by TCU. I admit, it is difficult for me not Check-in and Grade (CG). So here I am CGing for the TCUers. What a vacation.Don

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14493315.post-1141620652812521902006-03-05T20:45:00.000-08:002006-03-05T20:50:52.860-08:00

Well, it happened tonight. A rap song, "It's Hard Out Here for a Pimp" from "Hustle & Flow" won the prize for best song at the Academy Awards. I remember the first time I heard a Beatle song in an elevator -- impossible! No, not impossible simple the place popular songs go to die. Hip Hop and Rap have been popular for quite a while but not enough to break into the staid format of the Academy

David Megillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03501953750427768407noreply@blogger.com0