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Read MoreBuying presents for children at Christmas can be an easy choice, since they often write their letters to Santa in advance. However, buying a present for a partner or family member can involve some thought. Everyone Loves Music A portable media player is always a pleasant gift, as they are ideal to use at the gym or during a gentle stroll. Popular companies now market portable media and digital audio players, but many mobile (or smart) phones allow you to store song, movies and books; depending on the memory storage that they offer. Memory cards for mobile phones come in a variety of sizes which makes them a great gift for music and movie lovers. Technology today has come far from the personal stereo and portable CD player, which was impossible to run with for fear it would jump and ruin the CD playback. The MP3 player in mobile phones has caused more success than the sale of individual MP3 players put together. In 2007, over one billion music phones had sold. Since mobile phones can also make phone calls, text and browse the World Wide Web, individual MP3 players have taken a back seat in the field of technology. The Growth of MP3 Players The first MP3 players available were the same size as a deck of cards, but nowadays they look the size of a matchbox. The smaller or slimmer they are, the more general the popularity and need. MP3 players are delicate and require careful maintenance. Many of them will come with a connecting wire so that you can upload music from your computer onto the device. iTunes is a popular music platform where you can buy and download music to your individual MP3 player or music phone. In addition, you can upload your favourite CDs onto your music platform and then transfer them onto your music player. Music mobiles and MP3 players even provide the option of choosing a personal playlist that you know will motivate you when you feel you need an extra shot of mental stimulation. The popularity of personal MP3 players is down to the fact that you can complete many tasks, without the music skipping. A flash drive is incorporated into the device for a pleasant experience. Runners can apply a portable MP3 device to an armband for comfort without the risk of it slipping out of a pocket: plus music is a fantastic motivator. The Popularity of Music Phones MP3 players first began functioning in mobile phones in 2001. By 2005, all of the major mobile phone manufacturers had released music phones. One reason why Apple invented the iPhone so quickly is because of the rapid success of media players in mobile phones. While this phone is popular worldwide, there are other phones offering exactly the same gadgets. However, mobile phones that do offer so many applications such as the media player option may also have a short battery life and require a daily charge. Mobile phones now allow you to check your bank account while travelling to work on the train, listen to music or the radio aloud or with headphones, play games, text, make calls, browse the Internet, take pictures and watch movies and TV. With so much variety, is it any wonder why the sales of individual MP3 players are fallen? Many of these smart phones offering all of the above are available freely on a set contact. If you sign up for a mobile phone contract as a gift for a loved one, it may be useful to opt for insurance, especially if the phone is worth several hundred pound. This protects against accidental damage and theft. As the music mobile has completely stolen the multimedia market from the individual market, it has become a clear winner when choosing your stocking fillers this year.
Read MoreAs shops start to pile on the festive cheer and stock-up on Christmas delights despite the fact there are still three full months between now and the big day, chances are you either love this fact or hate it. Whether you find yourself muttering your way around stores about it being too early to sell Christmas stuff and play Christmas songs or skipping merrily down the aisles while singing along to the lyrics, there can be no denying that Christmas songs are big business. Every year many of us indulge in our favourites, be that modern takes on classics, hymns or catchy carols. And recent research has highlighted that a chunk of us are more likely to spend more on gifts when stores play Christmas songs. Nowadays, we hear lots of tunes sung by the likes of Slade, Mariah Carey, The Pogues and Band Aid as we go about our day – but we mustn’t forget about the classic Christmas songs which continue to entertain and bring joy to listeners many decades after they were launched. 1. The Christmas Song This classic tune was first penned in 1944 by Mel Tormé and Bob Wells, and is able to succinctly sum up Christmas – with chestnuts on the fire and mention of Jack Frost, mistletoe, reindeers and turkey within the lyrics. This song is often subtitled Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire, and was initially subtitled Merry Christmas To You, and is said to have been written during a red hot summer. 2. White Christmas Written for the 1942 film Holiday Inn by Irving Berlin, this song became a hit straightaway, reaching the top spot in October of that year and staying put for 11 weeks. Its success generated a film of the same name in 1954 starring Bing Crosby. 3. Santa Claus Is Coming To Town Just the title of this track is likely to have you humming along merrily, as it conjures up Christmases of our childhood for so many of us. This song was first aired on the radio in November 1934 and an impressive 400,000 copies had been sold by that Christmas. With lyrics by “Haven” Gillepsie, this classic tune is said to have been outlined in around 10 minutes by American songwriter John Frederick Coots. Over the years, versions have been sung by Nat King Cole and the Jackson 5. 4. Walking In The Air The animated classic of The Snowman, a book by Raymond Briggs, became an instant hit when first shown in 1982. Its success was thanks in part to the brilliant theme tune by Howard Blake. Haunting and memorable, the song was originally sung by Peter Auty, but it was Aled Jones who took it into the charts in 1985. 5. Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer Written by Johnny Marks and based on the 1939 story of the same name, this song was first sung by Harry Brannon in 1949 – before Gene Autry’s recording reached number one in Christmas 1949 and went on to sell 2.5million copies in the first year alone. Inspirations Wholesale sell a wide range of Christmas trees including 7ft Christmas trees
Read MoreMartha Graham once said in a very succinct and apt way, “Dance is the hidden language of the soul.” Every nation in the world has some form of music and dance as integral parts of their history. However, perhaps no form of dance can enable the soul to speak more eloquently than Latin dance. The sheer energy, frame, grace, power, sexiness and charisma of this dance form, decades ago, took the world by storm and still holds it in-thrall. There are dozens and dozens of dance forms that come under the umbrella of Latin dance so we thought (with it being Strictly season) that we’d take a closer look at five extremely popular Latin dance forms. Cha Cha Cha Even the name of the dance, Cha Cha Cha, can get the feet a-tapping! This dance originates from Cuba and has its origins around 1952-53. Technically speaking, the dance movements for the Cha Cha Cha start on the second beat and it also had a split fourth beat. Traditionally, this dance is accompanied by good old Cuban music or Latin rock. There are a few variations from country to country as well. Samba The Samba originated in Brazil in the early 20th century, with a few of its steps first detailed in the early 1910s. This is a partner dance, which is lively and very energetic. The technique behind the Samba involves the bending of the knees, which causes the couple to have a bobbing action. Rumba One dance form that shows the marriage of two different cultures is the Rumba. It has a distinct mix of Cuban and African influences and has a ballroom version. The ballroom version of the Rumba is to a slower beat and even restrained compared to the Afro-Cuban Rumba. One of the signature moves of the Rumba is the hip sway, which takes place when a dancer is balanced on just a foot! Paso Doble This Spanish term stands for double step and that is the core of this Latin dance form. It is performed by a duo and is a very lively style of dance. Interestingly enough, it has close links to the Spanish tradition of bullfighting. It is a very structured dance form and, as a result, it is mostly performed at competitive levels. Argentine Tango Even though there is some debate about whether this is a true Latin dance form or not, the Argentine Tango is considered by many to be inextricably linked to the history of Latin dance. This is probably one of the slower dance forms among the several Latin dance forms and is marked by a couple dancing in close embrace to nostalgic music. This article was produced by leading Latin America Tour operator – Journey Latin America who offer superb holidays to Argentina, Brazil, Peru and the whole of the South American continent. IMAGE ATTRIBUTION http://www.flickr.com/photos/tammylo/424762097 http://www.flickr.com/photos/78207463@N04/7636143384 http://www.flickr.com/photos/34094515@N00/5054723509 http://www.flickr.com/photos/vdrg/5561136811/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/ana_cotta/2711677973
Read MoreBiomusicology Biomusicology is a new field that studies music from a biological point of view. Biomusicologists believe that music has been around long before humans. Music has been in existence as long as the animals have roamed the world. From birds to whales, many different species of animals use music to communicate with each other. Humans and Music It is believed that humans are hardwired to make music. People in prehistoric times were likely to make whistles or drums out of bones. Later people constructed instrument to play for fun or to be used for ceremonies. Around 2,500 years ago, Pythagoras used math to come up with the musical scale. Then each note was given a letter in order to read and write music. Evolution of Music Music began to transform as the years went on. As music developed, it became more complex. Cultures began to adopt music and develop it to express their traditions. Overtime, the expansion of music caused the expansion of designs of instruments. Religion also had an influence on the development of music. It was being played in churches and monasteries. Later music began to reflect cultural changes throughout the decades. Music changed from the classical era where Beethoven and Bach were popular and expanded to rock and roll where Elvis came into the scene. Emotional Value of Music People enjoy listening to music because of the emotional benefits it offers. Some listen to oldies because it brings back memories. Others enjoy classical because it relaxes them. A few like rock because it pumps them up. Whatever the reason, each person has a reason why they listen to their favorite type of music. Music throughout a Lifetime People are exposed to music at all ages. When they are babies, parents will sing songs or lullabies. Mothers have even started playing music to their children while they are still in the womb. Kids in preschool or kindergarten listen to songs that help them understand math, geography, and even history. People who undergo stress or traumatic events will even go through musical therapy to help recover from health problems like stroke. Music No matter the reason, music is listened to on a daily bases. The rhythms and instruments helps people relax, deal with stress, focus, and feel. Live music and recorded music has benefits for everyone and it will continue to evolve with the people to listen to it. WineStyles The Vintage is the place for live music Houston. Our building is an intimate acoustically controlled venue with over one hundred seats. To ensure quality sound for every concert, we have our own sound system and an amazing sound engineer.
Read MoreIf you are planning a getaway to the Algarve region of Portugal for your next holiday, why not plan in an evening of listening to the hauntingly beautiful sounds of traditional Fado music? When you are on holiday abroad, you see the sights, taste the food and feel the sunshine on your skin. By going to a Fado performance you can take it one step further and engage your sense of hearing as well. Fado music has a long and fascinating tradition in Portugal and it is incredibly moving and powerful to listen to. Dining at a local restaurant while listening to the traditional sounds of these old fashioned ballads will truly give you an experience of the heart and soul of Portuguese culture. The Story of Fado First of all, what is Fado music and how did it originate? Here is a bit of information about the history of Fado and its significance in Portuguese culture: Origins of Fado This Portuguese musical genre can be traced all the way back to the 1820s and perhaps even earlier. Its history is mostly passed on orally, which is why it is difficult to know exact dates. Some believe that the genre traces its origins back to songs between friends during the Middle Ages, Moorish Ballads or African-Brazilian rhythms. In the mid-19th century, the performers of Fado music were poor working class sailors who danced as they sang, accompanied by a Portuguese guitar and a classical guitar. What the Music Means The songs of Fado tell the tales of life of the poor and also about the people’s relationship with the sea. They are passed down through several generations by parents singing the songs to their children and so this tradition has carried on through the centuries. Most Fado songs often have a distinct tone of melancholy and the feeling of a sense of loss. The Portuguese word for it is “Saudade” which translates as longing. Even if you cannot understand the lyrics, the powerful emotion in the music will reach into your heart and touch you deeply. This type of music is so unique and so important to Portuguese culture, that it has actually been named a UNESCO World Heritage treasure. Listening to Fado in the Algarve Although this type of music originated in Lisbon, Fado has spread throughout Portugal and can be experienced in the Algarve region. You will have many opportunities to listen to live Fado music while staying in the Algarve on your holiday. At the Porches Velho restaurant in the quiet village of Porches you will find yourself within a 210 year old wine cellar, which is the perfect setting in which to feel like you have been transported back in time while listening to the music. At the Real Marina Hotel you will be able to attend Fado performances every Sunday. Another great place to listen to Fado is The Atrium restaurant in Albufeira, which has balcony dining that overlooks the streets of this picturesque city. Also, the town of Portimao hosts the Festival of Fado which gathers together some of the best musicians in the country to perform. Besides these options, you could always just ask the local people in the community if they know of any upcoming Fado performances. If you have a chance to spend an evening listening to Fado during your holiday in the Algarve, be sure to take the opportunity. Listening to this beautiful style of music being performed live is incredibly moving and will be one of the most memorable experiences of your visit to Portugal. During your holiday at Monte da Quinta Suites, be sure to take the opportunity to enjoy some traditional Fado music.
Read MoreAsk the opinion of a handful of music aficionados and the majority of them will say that The Beatles are, and will always be, the greatest band to ever live. To say they are legendary doesn’t even come close to their influence on the world that still reverberates through society today. And now they’ve made a comeback with their experimental film, “Magical Mystery Tour,” which will be available for purchase and watched on blu ray players by their biggest admirers. Of course, this wasn’t the first movie that the Fab Four has done. Before this film, there was “Help!” and “A Hard Day’s Night.” Where this movie differed, of course, was in its tone. Their first two films were comedic, while “Magical Mystery Tour” experimented with the psychedelic overtones that had become popularized during the era. Introducing six new songs throughout the film, this 1967 musical introduced us to an eccentric band of characters who populate a trip to the English countryside. Of course, this is a simplistic run-down of what occurs in the film, as the narrative doesn’t follow any hard and fast rules. Instead, it is all over the place, boiling down to an odd collection of clips focusing on songs such “The Fool on the Hill” and “I am the Walrus.” The digital restoration of picture and sound will make your Blu Ray player shine. The picture quality of “Magical Mystery Tour” really brings to life every character and sequence like never before. Add to that the 5.1 surround sound that makes the songs sound better than ever, and you have the best presentation of this film that you would have probably never seen otherwise. For all you huge Beatles fan out there (and there are A LOT of you), the release of “Magical Mystery Tour” includes a deluxe edition that will look great alongside any Blu Ray or Beatles collection. This 10″ by 10″ set includes two discs; one that is accessible for Blu Ray players and a standard DVD version of the film, plus commentary by none other than Paul McCartney, who was the real driving force behind the experimental film. You’ll also get to enjoy brand new interviews with McCartney and Ringo Starr. Plus, an added bonus: a special LP that includes the original mono EP released in the United Kingdom and half a dozen additional songs. And if all that wasn’t enticing enough to make this deluxe edition a part of your collection, you also get a 60-page book filled with production notes, background info, and photographs from the original film and its production. With this film and the recent release of the animated movie “Yellow Submarine,” we are now only one movie away from the entire Beatles film collection. Once “Let It Be” is released, The Beatles life on Blu Ray will be complete. Citations: Photo credit Mercedes Potter is a huge fan of The Beatles and looks forward to taking a psychadelic trip watching the Magical Mystery Tour. Follow her @CedesPotter to read other music related posts.
Read MoreImage by jem Do you have an old box of records sitting out in the garage? Maybe you inherited some old vinyl from your parents. Instead of letting them gather dust out in the garage, consider some of the different things you can do with them. Most people don’t know that vinyl records have been making a comeback. Independent record stores and online vendors do very well buying, selling, and trading new and old vinyl. Before you dump them to a far dark corner of your garage, consider the alternatives. Selling Old Vinyl Records Selling old vinyl records can be a great way to start a new hobby or simply make a little bit of money. There is a huge market of record collectors that will spend thousands of dollars on vintage vinyl records. Do some research on the vinyl you have. Find out if any of the artists are selling at top dollar. You never know when an old Beatles album you have collecting dust can be worth thousands. Not only can you make money but you might find yourself interested in becoming a professional collector. It can be a fun hobby to pick up especially for a music lover. Hold On To Them Another idea is to simply hold on to them. Get something like a VPI record cleaner and some plastic sleeves and properly s tore that old Bob Dylan vinyl. You may have some records that will age well, and really be worth something later. They can also be great to pass down to your own kids. Sharing music with your family can be a wonderful bonding experience. You can create memories together that they will never forget. Today’s youth are unfamiliar with records and record players. Introduce them to something really special. Do you have a music room or entertainment space in your home? They can be great decorative items, sitting on a shelf or with an old vintage record player. They can be especially wonderful in a home with other vintage items. If you or your family collects antiques they make a wonderful decorative addition. Consider taking the vinyl out and using the album covers as wall decorations. This can be a fun way to make use out of them in a game room or other gathering space. You might even be able to decorate your office using them. Don’t just stuff those old vinyls into the back of your garage, get creative with them. Eric Blair writes about lp records and vinyl record cleaners that are making a come back amonth the young people.
Read MoreSeveral music festivals take place in the United Kingdom throughout the year. These festivals are a chance for both established and aspiring artists to display their talent, and give a musical treat to their fans. While these events maybe a great source of entertainment for visitors, the organisers have to consider the finer details to make them a success. The Glastonbury Festival is a well-organised event, attracting up to 170,000 fans. Held for the first time in 1970 and previously known as the Pilton Festival, Glastonbury has grown into a mega event. Held every year at Worthy Farms, the Glastonbury festival is one of the best organised musical events in the UK. The festival attracts musicians from all over the UK. The Pyramid stage, acoustic tents, circus and comedy tents are some of the main attractions during the festival. As the event attracts an audience of up to 170,000 music lovers, organisers have to look into every aspect of event management. The organisers make hectic efforts to mobilize participants, volunteers and authorities for the festival. Since 2002, the firm Festival Republic has been in charge of the event’s security and logistics. Another company, called Left Field, organises and manages all work related to setting up of stages across Worthy farm. Oxfam, a well-known non-governmental organisation, provides the support of around 1400 stewards for the event. Beer bars during the event are sponsored by the Danish-company, Carlsberg. Local companies provide catering and retail services, while food stands also serve food to vegetarians. The tardis-style portable toilets, ‘long drop’ toilets and a limited number of deluxe toilets are available at the festival site. Urinal and hand-washing facilities, staffed by WaterAid, are also easily accessible by the visitors. Hygiene at these toilets is maintained by a staff of about 300 cleaners and several Environmental Health students. The V Festival is a highly secure and enjoyable event. The V Festival, organised on an annual basis by the Virgin Media group, kicked off as a one-day event at Warrington in 1996. Since then, the V Festival has become one of the UK’s most popular and best attended musical events. It has become a four-day event, attracting huge crowds of up to 80,000 people. Held in Staffordshire, SJM’s V Festival is a highly safe and enjoyable experience as the visitors can also camp at the location. The organisers develop the town’s infrastructure to support the influx of music lovers from neighbouring towns. G4S, a full crowd management service company, provides an estimated 600 stewarding and security staff. Ticket checking, campsite patrols, safety and security stewarding, access control and protection for VIP areas and backstage are some of the other services provided by G4S. Food and market stalls at the V Festival are set up by Central Catering Services Ltd. Alcohol and beer can be purchased by people above 21 only from any of the several bars located near the festival site. Visitors are allowed to bring their own water and soft drinks to the event. Visitors are also provided toilets and warm shower facilities in the campsites and arena. Citations: Photo by Ed.ward This article was produced by Griffin Toilet Hire. Click here to visit their site.
Read MoreFor help and advice on choosing the right home entertainment system for you, get in touch with the experts at Rococo Systems.
