After a professional development session this week, I was talking to one of our music teachers who does an excellent job of integrating technology into the regular band and vocal music course offerings. Classroom uses embrace composition, arranging, recording, sequencing, accompanying and theory instruction. Software packages used included packages for both Mac and Windows – Finale, Band in a Box, Garage Band and Sequel. This spun off into a conversation reminiscing about the ‘old days’ – meaning before MIDI, sound samples, loops, powerful notation software etc.
I told him about the WX5 MIDI wind instrument I had been playing over the summer (reaction = wow), he told me about new professional level sound samples he is using for some scoring work he is doing – cool.
As a technology user, it is easy to look at something as the next logical step of development. So yes, maybe a ‘cool’ factor to a new device or sound. Lets pause for a moment and step back. The changes in this technology area in the last dozen years is absolutely phenomenal = WOW. Look at what you can do with home/school level equipment and software. Truly amazing.
Pictured above, are the WX5 MIDI wind instrument, an electric violin and an electric guitar equipped with a pitch to MIDI device.
Think of the impact Bach or Mozart had on the world of music. I wonder what would have happened to music development if this equipment was available in their time or they were alive now. One thing for sure, they would have as much fun with technology as we are!!!
Just wondering ….
~ Mark
~ Mark's Musings ~ blog.markwcarbone.ca 
Hi Mark.
When are you going to buy Stephanie the rest of her violin? You can probably get some nice wooden laminate to cover up the holes. 😉
Ron
I wonder. Even the purists use the traditional instruments and their trained ear to reach their perfection. When I watch orchestras in action, I don’t see electronics – I see people who have incredible skills being conducted by a master. However, all of these folks have been students of the masters who did not have the electronic tools. I’m stuck in some circular logic here.
Methinks there’s a great deal to be said for purists at the highest level. Even Major League Baseball still uses wooden bats!