RaftingCanadian

Showing posts for January 2005

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Votes
Reply To: Musical Instruments

Description
History
Playing the Sarangi
 

Sarangi
 

Description

The sarangi is the most popular bowed instrument of India. Like the sitar, the sarangi's history is quite old. This instrument began as a voice accompaniment, but gained a reputation as a wonderful solo instrument. The sarangi, when played by a master, is capable of closely imitating the nuances of the human voice.

This instrument is made of a block of tun wood, with a goat skin stretched over the body. There are 3 main playing strings and 30 to 40 sypathetic strings.

The technique used to play the sarangi is to play the main strings with the tops of the fingernails of the left hand. It is bowed with a heavy bow like the ones used for the esraj and dilruba.

History

The history of evolution of Sarangi is in itself a tale of romantic hues. Legend has it that once, long long ago, a hakim (a physician), weary and footsore from his travels, lay down to rest under a tree when his ears were assailed by melodious notes emanating from the forest denseness. A search revealed the dried-up hide of a dead monkey stretched over the branches of a tree. As the gentle winds caressed the hide, melodic sounds wafted forth. Thus, believe the faithful, was born - Sarangi. In its other ramifications, the chief role in this tame is attributed to a disciple of the great Pythagoras, an Egyptian named Boo Ali Ibn Sina.

Legends apart, however, no authentic account of the development of the sarangi is available. By inference, it may be assumed that it evolved, like most of the other known Indian instruments, from the Dhanuryantram (bow and arrow) used by primitive tribes for hunting, as also to signal the advent of the enemy. Descriptions in Ramayana and the Mahabharat of the reverberating sounds of Rama's bow, Sharang and Arjun's bow, Gandeeva which are said to have demoralized the enemy camp, lend color to this inference. It is believed that this particular sound later inspired the design and shape of the bowed instruments used by primitive tribes. The curvature of the bow provided the idea of constructing the body of the instrument and connecting both ends with gut string. Primitive Man used intestines of wild animals to make the strings. There are indications that the horse-tail hair was also used to manufacture the bows.

From the point of view of shape and structure, the ancient musical instrument without the frets known as Ghosvati or Ghoshak Veena, was perhaps the closest to the later day sarangi. In more modern paralance, the Pinaki Veena, a gut-string bowing instrument described in sarang Deva's Sangeet Ratnakar (13 A.D.) bears close resemblance to the sarangi we know.

We find that practically all over India instruments very akin to the sarangi have been in vogue. Unlike the more polished and perfectly shaped sarangi poularly used today, these instruments known as the ravana hatha in Western India, kingri in Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh, kunju in Kerela, pen in Manipur, kamayanch in Rajasthan and banam and kenara in Orissa, were made of ordinary wood or coconut shell, devoid of all ornamentation.

The other variations of the same theme are saran in jammu and Kashmir with two steel and two gut strings and nineteen subsidiary strings (Taral) with the resonator being covered with sheep or goat skin; the Sindhi Sarangi, the Jogia Sarangi, the Gujaratan Sarangi and Alabu Sarangi.

The introduction of sarangi into the classical tradition has been slow process though it would seem to have established its credentials as an incomaprable accompanying instrument even in this sphere as early as the days of the great Tansen. As the veena acquired solo status, the range and pitch of the sarangi, the power and sensitivity of its tonal qualities, and its rare capacity for reproducing the gamak, so indispensable to the singing of the khayal, dhrupad and thumri of Hindustani Music, made it a natural successor to veena.

Unfortunately for sarangi, in the very process of it's induction into the classical tradition have lain the seeds of neglect and the threat of oblivion in the future. With the patronage of Hindustani classical music passing into the royal courts, and the emergence of Kothas and havelis as an integral part of the Nawabi way of life, the sarangi became identified with the mehfils and tawaifs (dancing girls). An ample illustration of the travails of the sarangi player is the fact that some of the all time greats of Hindustani music like Abdul Karim Khan, Bade Ghulam Ali Khan and Amir Khan who had begun their artistic careers as sarangi players had to disown their past on their path to fame.

In 16th and 17th century, sarangi-playing bards, singing religious songs and heroic ballads, began flocking to the Indian cities. They were at best tolerated and could in no way compete with the more established beenkars and rababiyas. A decent living could perhaps be made by teaching and accompanying the vocalists.

Playing the Sarangi

The bow is held palm upwards. It is drawn across the main strings, just above the bridge. The fingers of the left hand note the strings. This is done by pressing and sliding the bottom of the fingernail against the side of the string. Players often use talcum powder on their palms to facilitate the gliding of the hand up and down the neck. The gliding of your nails along the strings creates the sound characteristic of Hindustani music.

7 Jan 2005 by RaftingCanadian 1.1K
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Votes
Reply To: Musical Instruments

The first decision involves choosing between either an electric or acoustic guitar. Once you have made that choice, the next thing you have to do is to determine the budget that you are comfortable with. If you are really serious about learning, it is recommended that you avoid buying a cheap and low-quality instrument, as such guitars tend to impede your learning. When it comes to upgrading, you will also find that getting a good price for your guitar will be difficult.

Acoustic guitars are some of the most beautiful instruments and can produce tantalizing music when learned to play properly. Most people who purchase guitars buy them with the intention to learn how to play them, but very few go on to become masters of the instrument. If you're serious about learning how to play one, you should first learn how to buy one. Serious musicians just don't buy their instruments from any music store - they learn what the best brands are, evaluate the sound qualities of each, and try the instruments before making an investment.

When buying a guitar, take an experienced player with you if possible. This way, your "personal guide" can evaluate the selection of guitars available and help you pick one that's appropriate for your level of music education (you can always upgrade later as your skills improve). Without your own personal guide, you can ask for help from the store clerk. Music store clerks are hired based upon their knowledge of musical instruments. If you get help from a clerk, explain your skill level and price range.

Having a wide selection to choose from, try out different guitars by strumming them with a pick and wearing strap. If you're not sure how to use a pick or wear a strap, the store clerk can help you do both. While you strum and pick each string of the guitar, you want to listen for a good quality sound. If you hear buzzing or any sounds coming from the guitar that you did not intend to make, look for a different one. A good guitar sound is pure and hollow. And if you have your "personal guide" with you, he or she can help you gauge the sound quality of each.

In addition to buying a guitar, browse through the selection of beginning guitar lessons books if available. Most music stores offer lesson books or even classes for those who want to learn to play their new purchases.

7 Jan 2005 by RaftingCanadian 1.1K
7
Votes
Reply To: Musical Instruments

Description Of The Dilruba

The dilruba is a cross between the sitar and sarangi and is extremely close to the esraj and is a string instrument native to India. The manner in which they are carved from wood and are relatively short and squat is among the many similarities shared between the dilruba and esraj. To play both these instruments the bow is drawn across the main strings and the sympathetic strings resonate. In fact these two instruments are so similar that a dilruba player can pick up an esraj and play with no difficulty and vice versa. The main difference is in the shape of their resonators and the manner in which the sympathetic strings attach.

Origin of the Dilruba

The origin of the dilruba is offered from two suggested theories. Some believe it was developed to accommodate the female player due to the large size of the satir, making it difficult to play for women and small children. Following this theory the dilruba's smaller size and shape allow it to be more easily held and played so as not to disfigure a woman's hands. Another theory suggests that the dilruba was a result of the tenth Sikhs request to downsize the Taus to make it more portable for the Saint-Warriors.

Whatever theory points to the correct origin of the dilruba they both end with the same result, a smaller easier to hold and play instrument. It has become a favorite accompaniment of vocalists because the dilruba's higher tone compliments the women's higher pitched voices. Another favored result of this instrument is that the bow creates longer sustains.

Tuning the Dilruba

The dilruba is crafted from organic materials including wood and skin. These materials react to temperature and humidity changes having a direct affect on tuning. If you have obtained a new dilruba the first few days will prove difficult for tuning until the skin soundboard has fully settled. To begin tuning your instrument you can tune the dilruba in the key of C (Indian key of Sa).

Tune your dilruba using a tuned piano or an electronic tuner. The main strings are tuned to C, F, G - 2 octaves below middle C, and G below middle C. The Indian key equivalent is Ma, Sa, Pa, Pa. Tuning of the sympathetic keys can be done on the major scale and can be tuned as follows:

  • in the scale below middle C: F, G, G, A, B
  • in the scale of middle C: C, C
  • in the scale above middle C: D, E, F, G, G, A, B, B
  • in the scale 1 octave above middle C: C, D, D, E, F

These suggestions are a minimum suggestion, nothing is fixed. As you advance in your skill you will probably tune specific for each Raga you play. Generally there is an optimal level of tightness for each Saaj.

How to play the dilruba

There are two popular methods for playing the dilruba. One method shows a preference to the index finger and using the middle finger when the player wishes to gain speed and the other shows a definite preference to use the middle finger coupled with the index finger. With either method the player does not lock down the strings on the fret as is common among other string instruments. You only need to lightly touch the strings between the frets.

Proper body posture is important for ease of playing the instrument as well. The preferred sitting position is cross legged with the neck of the instrument resting on your left shoulder. The soundboard should be angled toward you while you draw the bow across the main strings just above the bridge. Your left hand should be free to note the strings between the frets.

7 Jan 2005 by RaftingCanadian 1.1K
0
Votes
Reply To: Dating and Relationships

When guys first get into online dating they seem to all make the same mistakes. If you are not having much success with dating online then you will be making the same mistakes as other guys. Here are a few tips to help you have more success.

Keep your profile a suitable length

Do not have your profile too short. You need to say something about yourself to get the girls interested. They need to have something to talk to you about.

On the flip side, make sure that your profile is not too long; You are not trying to write a novel. Make sure you leave some parts out. You need some aspect of your life to stay mysterious.

Use flattering pictures that are accurate and up to date

Try not to use photos of when you were younger, or of someone else. Just use pictures that make you look your best but are not giving people the wrong idea. If you do not want to put pictures up, say why. Lying about pictures from the beginning is not a good look.

Keep your profile accurate

Make sure that your profile is correct and accurate. There is nothing that puts off a girl more than a guy who knows nothing about his favourite hobby.

Do not expect all the girls to reply

For every girl on a dating site, there are more than 5 guys. This means that some girls will just be too busy to reply to you. Do not take it personally and just move on.

Record conversation details

Keep notes on the conversations you have online. Girls tend to take it personally when you forget their birthday or they get a bad impression when you talk about the same item twice. Brief notes will just give you something to refer to when you are unsure.

Stay local

Try to avoid contacting girls that are more than a short drive away. Give the local girls a chance first as they are easier to meet offline.

Don't be dirty

Do not send rude pictures that show parts of you strangers do not want to see. Rude photos and messages will mean you have no chance.

Online dating does not work for everyone

People are different and different things will work for them. Make sure that you also try out other ways of meeting girls. Also, if you are looking for the type of girl who would rather be out doing something than be on the computer, you will not find her with online dating.

Get offline

Try to meet up with her offline as soon as possible. The longer you leave it the less likely you are to meet. Remember that people can be quite different when you meet them in person.

Be decisive

Girls like a guy who can make decisions and organise things. Make sure you have a time and place in mind before you raise the idea of meeting. Make a slight allowance for rescheduling, but do not let the girl push you around or keep putting it off.

Do not expect too much

Do not get your expectations too high on the first date when you have met online. You need to appear relaxed and calm.

Forget your dating past

Do not discuss any past partners or lack of partners as no good can come from it.

Have fun

Make sure you have fun. The most common attribute that girls look for in a guy is that they are fun.

Do not be afraid to stop replying for a while

If a girl is not responding, move on. When a girl starts to act weird or demanding, move on. If a girl does not turn up to a date, move on.

Do not be afraid to move on and stop replying. Sometimes it can be the best thing that you can do. Once a girl realises that she can lose her only chance with you, she will take more care and might reply.

Become the guy the girls want but can not have NOT the guy anybody can have but no one wants.

7 Jan 2005 by RaftingCanadian 1.1K
0
Votes
Reply To: Musical Instruments

Cumbus Origins
Description Of Cumbus
Care & Tuning Instructions for the Cumbus


Cumbus Origins

The Cumbus is a relatively young instrument. It was developed in Istanbul in the early 1900’s. The inventor, Zeynel, was born in Salonika, now known as Thessaloníki, Greece. He eventually settled in Beyazit, Istanbul, opened a music shop, and became known as Zeynel Abidin Bey. He was also known as a local Oud performer. Eventually he began to design new instruments. It was on January 24th 1930 that Zeynel’s instrument received its name from a fellow native of Thessalonica, the famous Ataturk Mustafa Kemal. Ataturk began his service to Turkey as a soldier. Later as a national leader he founded the republic of Turkey, and became Turkey’s first president. Drawing on the sound of the instrument for inspiration, Ataturk dubbed it ‘Cumbus’. Pronounced "joombush", “Cumbus” is Turkish for ‘revelry’. Soon Zeynel was manufacturing and selling his Cumbus. In 1934 the Surname Act was passed, requiring all Turkish citizens to take a family name. Zeynel Abidin Bey now became Zeynel Abidin Cumbus. About 30 years ago, the Cumbus stepped off the classical stage. Today, it is still played by the people out of the cities, especially at weddings, and special ceremonies.


Description Of Cumbus

Originally this Turkish chordophone had a leather soundboard, much like an American Banjo. The narrow fretless neck was designed to easily disassemble from the aluminum body by loosening a large screw mechanism. It has been said that the body looks like a kitchen frying pan; the back and sides are solid. There are vent holes on the top surface around the soundboard. Today the Cumbus have Mylar soundboards held in place by a bolted tension ring. For its light weight, the Cumbus is very sturdy and remarkably loud.


Care & Tuning Instructions for the Cumbus

As with all maniacal instruments common sense will go a long way in protecting its longevity. Do not store it in direct sunlight, or places with drafts. Avoid sudden changes in humidity and temperature. If you must ship your instruments remove some tension for the strings. With these Cumbus, do not use abrasives on the metal body. Be especially careful to keep sharp objects way from the soundboard.

The Standard Cumbus is tuned like the Turkish Oud and one step higher than the Arabic Oud. Almost any Oud tuning can be used. The two strings that make up a course are tuned to the same key.

From low to high you can tune:

  • Standard A B E a d g; or D E A D G C;
  • Egyptian/Arab: D G A D G C;
  • New Turkish Classical: F# B E A D G;
  • Turkish/Armenian: E A B E A D;
  • Turkish/Armenian Variant: C# F# B E A D;
  • Old Turkish Classical: A D E A D G.
  • The Tambor Cumbus has 6 strings in 3 courses; tuned D A d.
  • The Cura Cumbus can be tuned like a banjo or mandolin.
7 Jan 2005 by RaftingCanadian 1.1K
0
Votes
Reply To: Money and Finance

No doubt, investing your hard-earned money is a risky business. Sure, there are investments that look like they don't carry huge risk of failure, but these won't get you huge amounts of dough. Remember -- huge risk comes with huge returns. And if you're properly informed as to the basic terms and principles of investing, chances are you'll lead yourself into financial security.

That said, why should you invest? Here are a couple of good reasons:

  1. Have your money make more money for you -- and you won't have to lift a finger. Sounds great? Of course it is. It's just that some people can't afford to keep away their money, and spend them a short time after they earn it. Learn to save and invest some.
  2. Beat inflation. If you wisely invest your money in places or products that give a return that surpasses the rate of inflation, your future finances are in good hands. Many experts agree that over the long term, investing in the stock market will give you returns that beat inflation.
  3. You have a business? Investments are crucial to any business, whether small or big. Lessons in investment are also lessons in owning and maintaining a business -- learning the risks involved, choosing the risks to take, and keeping an eye out for lucrative opportunities. So investing doesn't just help you grow your capital and expand your business; it also teaches you how to become a successful businessman.
  4. You have a family? Raising a family is hard, especially with all the costs you have to face day in and day out -- the house mortgage, the family car, appliances, and so on. The initial effort of investing part of your monthly salary can yield large sums of money later on. You can use these returns to pay the bills or buy something for your family -- even a vacation!
  5. You’re in school, or paying for someone who’s in school? Education is one of the most profitable investments you can make. Tuition fees can shoot up through the years, so it's wise to be ready to support someone’s studies in the long-term. Investing in a good educational plan is a good move.
  6. Assure yourself of a good future. Even if you're still young, it's better to think ahead than be sorry. Have enough money when you retire by making long-term investments. You'll be surprised to see how much you'll earn through the years, or even the decades.
  7. Investing isn't that hard to do. You don’t even need to hire a professional to manage your finances -- you can do it yourself! First thing you need to do is get over the intimidation factor. Then, familiarize yourself with all the jargon and procedures, and study the various places where to invest your money.

There are many more reasons why you should invest, and you'll get to learn more about them when you take the first steps and start exploring your investment

7 Jan 2005 by RaftingCanadian 1.1K
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Votes
Reply To: Musical Instruments

The double bass is a musical instrument, the largest and lowest-tuned member of the violin family of string instruments, which includes the violin, viola, and cello. It resembles the other members of the family, but is much larger and has slight differences in shape. Other names for the instrument (especially when used in folk, bluegrass, and jazz music) include string bass, acoustic bass, bass violin, doghouse bass, dog-house, bull fiddle, and upright bass. A person who plays this instrument is called a double-bassist or contrabassist.

The double bass, unlike the rest of the violin family, is derived from the viol family of instruments, in particular the Violone, a bass viol. Because of this, and also to avoid too long finger stretch, it is tuned in fourths whereas the violin, viola and cello are tuned in fifths.

The player stands or sits and holds the instrument upright, slightly tilted toward them. When standing, the top of the instrument (the head) is approximately at the same height as the players head. At the base of the double bass is a 'spike' or 'foot' which rests on the floor. As with other string instruments the double bass is played with a bow (arco) or by plucking the strings (pizzicato).

Modern instruments are usually tuned E-A-D-G, with the upper G being an octave and a fourth below middle C (approx 98Hz), and the E almost 3 octaves below middle C (the bottom E on a modern piano, approx 41Hz). A variety of tunings, and numbers of strings were used on a variety of confusingly-named instruments through the sixteenth to the early twentieth centuries, when the four-stringed tuning above became almost universal. Since the range of the double bass lies largely below the standard bass clef, it is usually notated an octave higher (hence sounding an octave lower than written). This transposition applies even when reading the tenor clef and treble clef, which are used for the instrument's upper range.

The double bass is used extensively in western classical music as a standard member of the string section of symphony orchestras and smaller string ensembles. However, it has perhaps achieved more prominence in jazz, blues, and early rock and roll where it is usually played with amplification and almost exclusively played with a form of pizzicato where the sides of the fingers are used in preference to the tips of the fingers.

In traditional jazz and swing, it is sometimes played in the slap style, a more vigorous version of pizzicato where the string is plucked so hard it then bounces off the finger board, making a distinctive sound.

Dance-band bass players had used conventional microphones as pickups for years without altering their playing styles. Some recent variations of the double bass have been fitted with pickups like an electric guitar's and are designed exclusively for use with electric amplification.

Double bass bow

There are two kinds of bows used in double bass playing: German and French. They are different in both design and playing technique. The french bow is a heavier version of the bow used by the modern violin family, and held in the same way, with the palm facing down, the fingers resting over the top of the stick and the thumb grasping the frog. The german bow has a much larger frog and is held with the palm angled upwards, as used for the upright members of the viol family.

Bass tuning

The bass has usually 4 strings tuned (lowest to highest) E, A, D, G. The strings are made of either nylon or cat gut (traditionally) or metal-wrapped synthetic or nylon. Commonly used are flat-wrapped metal strings.

Some basses have 5 strings; the additional string may be either an extra high string (tuned to C) or an extra low string tuned to B. Such basses are larger than usual, somewhat harder to play, and rare.

Many four-string basses have a 'C extension' which extends the lowest string down as far as low C, a note an octave below the lowest note on the cello. This is invaluable in classical music, because the bass often doesn't have a separately written part but is told to play the cello part an octave lower, a practice known as 'doubling'. It is this that gives the double bass its name.

7 Jan 2005 by RaftingCanadian 1.1K
0
Votes
Reply To: Musical Instruments

Choosing a musical instrument is not a decision to be taken lightly.  Playing any musical instrument requires a great deal of commitment in order to become a skilled musician and so you need to spend some time considering the kind of sound you enjoy listening to.

The first thing you need to do is to listen to various kinds of instruments, firstly to identify the right instrument group, whether you prefer to listen to woodwind, strings, brass or even percussion.  This will help you to narrow down your possible choices.  Having identified the musical instrument group that you enjoy the most, then it's time to look at specific instruments within that group.

Again, listening is your first step towards finding the right musical instrument for you.  Try to obtain a number of CDs which highlight each instrument in your chosen group.  Which of these do you enjoy the most?  These are the ones that you want to look at more closely.

Now it's time to visit the music store.  Ask the sales assistant if it's possible to hold the instruments that you're interested in.  Which of them feels as if it belongs in your hands when you hold it correctly?  Is there anything about it that makes it uncomfortable to hold - size, weight (brass and woodwind can get heavy to hold), required movement (especially with string section instruments), etc?  How is the sound made?  Does it require any specific technique that you may not be able to manage - larger woodwind and brass instruments need a lot of effort to create a good tone and so if you have any breathing related health issues, you may be better with a smaller version of these instruments if you would like to play an instrument in either of these instrument groups.

Identify which instrument seems to be the one for you from those you have looked at.  Now ask the sales assistant for more specific information about it.  How easy is it to assemble, and what "extras" are needed to play it (reeds, grease, strings, resin etc)?  What about tuition?  Is there anywhere local where you can go to learn to play from a qualified tutor?  Alternatively, are there any orchestras in your area that take on beginners?  Also enquire about maintenance of the instrument - how regularly should it be cleaned and how should this be done.

Finally enquire about how much this kind of instrument would cost.  You don't have to buy it at the music store if you have a limited budget; you could purchase it through a small ad in the newspaper, online or even in a second hand store if you're lucky.  However, some music stores have budget plans that will allow you make regular payments rather than paying the entire sum up front.  It's also possible that your music store allows you to have a trial period with the musical instrument of your choice so that you can try it out and see if it's really the right one for you - and which you can return if you find that it's not.

You are going to be making quite an investment in the musical instrument you purchase; not only in terms of money, but also in respect of the time you will spend playing it.  Therefore it's worth spending the time necessary to identify the right instrument before you commit to one particular instrument so that you're sure that this is something you will enjoy learning to play.

7 Jan 2005 by RaftingCanadian 1.1K
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Votes
Reply To: Musical Instruments

The fiddle is the same musical instrument as the violin, though the bows used can differ. Essentially, "fiddle" is used to described a violin when the violin is played in a folk music (i.e., traditional music) or sometimes a jazz style. One very slight difference between fiddle and violin occurs in American (e.g., bluegrass and old-time music) fiddling: the bridge is shaved down so that it is essentially flat. This makes it easier to play chords.

Historically, the word fiddle also referred to a predecessor of today's violin. Like the violin, it tended to have 4 strings, but came in a variety of shapes and sizes. Another series of instruments which contributed to the development of the modern fiddle was the viol da gamba, which was played while held between the legs, and has a fretted fingerboard.

7 Jan 2005 by RaftingCanadian 1.1K
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Votes
Reply To: Musical Instruments

Over the last decade, more and more cheap musical instruments have been flooding the markets from Asia and other countries offering cheap labour. These inexpensive musical instruments are made in a way that maximises the quantity made, rather than the quality. A factory in China is known to produce over 15,000 guitars a month in addition to pianos, violins and many other types of musical instruments.

Some of these large manufacturers can produce superb quality musical instruments that are just as good as those produced in North America and Europe. Brands such as Jinyin and Eastman have factories in china and use tonewoods for instruments such as violins. They at least have a hand carved finished, even though they are produced on production lines. Jinyin states that "Jinyin's 800 employees make 15,000 Saxophones, 25,000 Flutes, 20,000 Clarinets , 7,000 Piccolos, 50,000 violins and many thousands of French horns, Trumpets and Trombones each year". In the US, these instruments are commonly sold as inexpensive student models.

Many of the cheaper musical instrument manufacturers are not as careful about the quality of the products that they are creating. With violins as an example, this can mean:

  • Low quality materials

  • Poor quality coatings and finishes

  • Badly fitting parts

  • Compromised tone quality

For brass instruments this can mean:

  • Thin metal parts

  • Poor quality coatings and finishes

  • Cheap metal that breaks easily

  • Misaligned keys

These types of instruments can be found under many unknown brand names. Many of the brand names try to give a European feel to the instrument. Even the descriptions that they are sold with can be misleading hype. Examples of such misleading advertising are:

  • "German Engineered"

  • "The Original"

Parents looking for a child's first instrument should look into the differences between brands that are available. If you do not buy a well known brand, the instrument may cost you more in the long term. You need to remember that unknown brands and cheap musical instruments are:

Harder to fix
If something goes wrong with your cheap or unknown brand musical instrument, you might not be able to do anything about it. Local repairmen might not be able to fix substandard instruments and the replacement parts may not be available.
Harder to play and have a lower quality sound
Instruments that are not produced with much care can lack the expected sound quality. This can frustrate students and cause them to give up.
Not an investment
Good quality instruments are an investment and should retain value. Poor quality instruments will not keep their value and will cost you more in the long run.
7 Jan 2005 by RaftingCanadian 1.1K
0
Votes
Reply To: Musical Instruments

The nykelharpa is a keyed fiddle traditional in Sweden. It is a string instrument or chordophone. Its keys are attached to tangents which, when the key is depressed, serve as frets to change the pitch of the string.

There are at least four major variants of the nyckelharpa still played today, varying by the number and arrangement of keys, number and arrangement of strings, and general body shape.

Some versions of the nyckelharpa have sympathetic strings which are not bowed directly but resonate with the other strings.

7 Jan 2005 by RaftingCanadian 1.1K
0
Votes
Reply To: Archive

Many beginner investors always start asking this question and it is good to know the difference. Bonds and shares are quite different when compared by their risk, returns and payouts.

What are bonds?

Bonds are a form of debt, where the owner of the bond is the lender. A bond is a contractual loan that is made between institutions and investors. In return for the financing though the bond, the institution pays a premium for the borrowing. This is premium is known as a coupon.

When the bond matures, the bonds face value is returned to investors. This payback and coupon payments can only occur if the borrowing institution has sufficient cash flow.

What are shares?

Shares (or stock) signifies ownership of a company and are brought on share markets (or stock exchange). They allow investors to profit from the companies growth and revenue. As a company performs well and profit increases, the share price of a company rises, increasing the value of an investors holdings. There are no promises or guarantees on the return of the initial amount of investment.

Are bonds or shares better?

This depends on the amount of risk and the rate of returns you are expecting.

Shares have:

  • Higher returns

  • Higher risk

  • No guaranteed return

  • Part company ownership

  • Unlimited return from rising share price

Bonds have:

  • Lower returns

  • Less risk

  • Periodic Payment structure

  • Set time frame

  • Set rate of return

  • Company guarantees return

Although shares have a higher risk, most investors find a combination of shares and bonds to be a good bet. This allows investors to diversify their investments, giving some safety through bonds while leaving the opportunity open for higher returns from shares.

7 Jan 2005 by RaftingCanadian 1.1K
0
Votes
Reply To: Musical Instruments

Pochette violins arose from the 17th and 18th centuries when dancing masters used them as a teaching aid. It was too hard to carry a violin around everywhere teachers went, so they used a Pochette violin. This would fit into a large jacket pocket when it is not in use. Although Pochette violins do not always have great tonal qualities, they were more often used because of their practicality.

They were often highly decorated. A 1647 Jacques Du Mensil Pochette violin is located in the Victoria and Albert Museum with a body made from ebony and with ebony fittings.

As the Pochette violins are smaller, they are tuned higher than normal everyday violins. It is common for a Pochette violin to be tuned a fourth above a violin, but some were tuned an octave higher.

Pochette violins have 3 or 4 strings and the body of the instrument is quite small. The finger board is relatively long to accommodate the player's hand. Such an instrument is required in Monteverdi's 1607 Orfeo.

The Pochette violin is also known by the following names.

  • Pochette Fiddle

  • Pocket Violin

  • Kit Violin

  • Tanzmeistergeige (German)

7 Jan 2005 by RaftingCanadian 1.1K
2
Votes
Reply To: Dating and Relationships

It can be a big surprise and a huge shock when you realise that your girlfriend has been cheating on you. Most guys are caught completely by surprise when they discover that their partner is involved in an extramarital affair. When guys are aware that their relationship is not satisfying, in trouble or if they can admit they suspect infidelity, the reality that their partner was cheating is usually too much to bear.

The thought of a girlfriend cheating can be painful and depressing, so most will overlook obvious signs of cheating. Once infidelity is recognised, nearly all people experience anger at their ignorance in not recognising the possible signs of a unfaithful partner.

When your relationship is not as strong as it has been in the past, and you do not feel your girlfriend values you as much as she once did, you should make the 10 signs of a cheating girlfriend familiar to you.

  • She does not tell you all about her day and she seems more distant and closed off.

  • Your girlfriend has a sudden renewed interest in her appearance such as new and different clothing, hairstyle or weightless.

  • She starts to take up new interested that are out of character for her.

  • Your girlfriend changes her schedule. She may start earlier, end later or have new requirements such as dinners and late meetings.

  • She closes program windows on the computer as soon as your are near.

  • Your girlfriend starts to leave the room to take calls from her cellphone.

  • She starts to use or changes her use of perfume.

  • Your girlfriend starts a new habit of showering when she comes home.

  • She has recently become more argumentative or critical and has no obvious cause such as financial, work or her health.

  • Your girlfriend provides abnormally vague reasons for being late.

  • She becomes evasive when you ask about her where she was and what she did during the day.

Just one of these signs alone may be no cause for alarm, but more than 3 in a short period of time may indicate that she could be involved in an extramarital affair. This just means you should share any concerns with your partner and talk about what the relationship may be lacking. Relationships that are healthy, strong and satisfying will not be at risk from infidelity.

7 Jan 2005 by RaftingCanadian 1.1K
0
Votes
Reply To: Musical Instruments

Description of the Psaltery
Tuning Instructions for the Psaltery


Description of the Psaltery

The psaltery is in the family of chordophones. Vibrating strings by running a bow across them makes their sound. The psaltery’s strings run the entire length of the instrument and put it in the same classification as the zither. The psaltery was developed in the Middle East, and was a very important instrument during the Medieval Period.


Tuning Instructions for the Psaltery

Always start with the shortest string and work to the longest string. This will ensure that you stay on the correct octave. You may replace the strings with #10 guitar strings. To tune, turn the pin in a clockwise direction while applying moderate pressure to maintain the friction holding the pin in place. The tuning pins are not threaded; rather they are tapered and held in place by friction. Pushing into the instrument as you tune the pins will seat them and make them hold firmly. You may need to re-tune frequently until your instrument is in condition. As you look at the soundboard the sharp and flat notes are to the left and the natural notes are to the right. The notes on the right side begin with C and end at the top with F. There are 2 ½ octaves on our psaltery.

Remember that the bow must be rosined to sound.

7 Jan 2005 by RaftingCanadian 1.1K
0
Votes
Reply To: Musical Instruments

The rebec (sometimes rebeck and originally various other spellings) is a bowed string musical instrument. In its most common form, it has three strings and is played on the arm or under the chin, like a violin. It was particularly popular in the 15th and 16th centuries.

The instrument is European, but probably developed from the Arabic instrument, the rabab. The rebec was first referred to by name around the beginning of the 14th century, although instruments very similar to it had been played since around the 10th century.

The rebec comes in a variety of slightly different forms, but is typically pear-shaped, with no clear division between the body and neck of the instrument, both being carved from the same single piece of wood. The body of the instrument is bowl-shaped, although the degree to which it is curved or flat can vary from instrument to instrument.

The rebec originally came in two basic forms: a wider instrument played under the chin; and a relatively narrower instrument which was rested on the player's thigh and played with the bow in an underhand position, like the viol. The under-the-chin technique had become predominant by the 15th century or so, but the instrument was narrower than before, and the bowl of the body less pronounced.

The number of strings on the rebec varies from one to five, although three is the most common number. The strings are often tuned in fifths, although this tuning is by no means universal. The instrument was originally in the treble range, like the violin, but later larger versions were developed, such that by the 16th century composers were able to write pieces for consorts of rebecs, just as they did for consorts of viols. However, the viol came to replace the rebec, and the instrument was little used beyond the renaissance period.

The instrument did remain in use by dance masters until the 18th century, however, often being used for the same purpose as the kit, a small pocket sized violin (also called a pochette or dancing masters violin). The rebec also continued to be used in folk music, especially in eastern Europe.

7 Jan 2005 by RaftingCanadian 1.1K
1
Votes
Reply To: Dating and Relationships

If there's one thing that's more irritating than anything else, it is to be with a gorgeous guy who turns out to be a lousy kisser. Kissing is not something that is taught - though practice does make perfect... but you either love it or you don't. Some guys slobber a lot and some guys are into dry kisses. Time out, for them. Guys, if she doesn't enjoy kissing you, you can forget any intimacy.

The bad kisser usually goes under the mistaken impression that if some women have actually put up with his kiss, so should every woman he kisses! And worse still, he will assume that an excess of everything works! Aggressive, lots of saliva, and lots of tongue play. Then there is the opposite type of guy who will not take the first step, nor will he show any participation.

So, guys, how can you tell that you are a terrible kisser? Here are some pointers:

  • If you're the sort who knocks your teeth against hers constantly, it hurts quite a bit. And you can bet she will be dreading the thought of you handling the rest of her.

  • If you pour saliva into her mouth, she is definitely not going to find it sexy, she's going to hate it. Remember the wetness belongs elsewhere!

  • If you tend to keep exploring the insides of her mouth with your tongue, you're going to remind her of her last trip to the dentist - and I can tell you that thought has no place in this situation.

  • If you are the awfully boring type who makes it a routine to smack your lips, open your mouth, and rapidly enter and exit your partner's mouth with your tongue - she's not going to enjoy it.

  • If you lock your mouth with hers, pour saliva into her mouth and gag her with your tongue - she's going to be struggling for her breath - for survival, not pleasure.

  • The grossest of all bad kissers is the one with bad oral hygiene! You can just take it for granted that no woman will savor being kissed by a guy with bad breath. And if he happens to be the wet sort to kisser, ugh!

When a woman never initiates the kissing, you can be sure that you are a bad kisser, as far as she is concerned. Women are affectionate creatures and they like to show it - and if you are a good kisser, she will tell you. If you are a bad kisser, she'll avoid you! Some women are good-natured enough to show you how to kiss, some will gently ask you whether you've kissed anyone before.

These are indications that you are a bad kisser. Some women will diplomatically avoid kissing you and go for the other areas, but this is quite rare, since the general contention is - good kissers usually make good lovers. The moral of this story is, you must not lose heart if you are a bad kisser. You can be trained. Practice. Be open-minded and learn.

7 Jan 2005 by RaftingCanadian 1.1K
0
Votes
Reply To: Musical Instruments

The viola d'amore is a stringed musical instrument sharing some characteristics with the viol family. Like viols, it has a flat back and intricately carved head at the top of the peg box, but it is unfretted, and played much like a violin, being held horizontally under the chin. It is about the same size as the modern viola.

The viola d'amore usually has fourteen strings. Seven of them are playing strings, which are sounded by drawing a bow across them, just as with a violin. The other seven are sympathetic strings which are not played directly but vibrate in sympathy with the notes played. A common variation is six playing strings, and instruments exist with as many as fourteen sympathetic strings alone. Despite the fact that the sympathetic strings are now thought of as the most characteristic element of the instrument, it is thought that some early examples may have lacked them.

There is no standard tuning scheme for the strings as there are with modern string instruments. Players will frequently need to change the tuning from one piece to another. However, the range of the instrument is usually from the D below middle C to the D two octaves above it.

Largely thanks to the sympathetic strings, the viola d'amore has a particularly sweet and warm sound. Leopold Mozart, writing in his Versuch einer gründlichen Violinschule, said that the instrument sounded "especially charming in the stillness of the evening."

7 Jan 2005 by RaftingCanadian 1.1K
1
Votes
Reply To: Dating and Relationships

A lot of men have a problem with asking a normal woman out on a date, for fear that she'll refuse - but asking a shy girl out on a date? Depending on the guy, it could be easy or need some work.

All the information available about dating is usually to do with attractive women who can handle most men - but what about shy women? Lets get one thing clear here, from the start: don't assume she is not interested in men. That said, if you look around, you will realize that there are a lot of women out there who are smart, look great, but are shy. It could be that they have just been brought up that way. All you have to do is to make a door in that wall, and step in.

The first thing NOT to do is appear very overbearing to her. Instead, show her that you are a little vulnerable too and concentrate on striking up a good conversation. The date comes later. Try to understand her world, and draw her out, let her know you appreciate her.  You might well be surprised to find that she might probably share the same interests as you and once you get talking about that, there's a good chance she might get animated and open up.

See, you've got to remember that just because she's shy, most guys might have probably ignored her - and it might just be a matter of getting her to talk! Have coffee with her, be casual, and come across as a friend and let her see the person you really are. If she likes what she sees, chances are very good she will say yes when you ask her out on a date.

Before you do that, understand what makes her shy. Is she shy only when there are people around or when you are alone? Does she hesitate to talk about her personal life? Once you determine what makes her shy, you can help her out of it.

Drawing her out

She needs time to get talking, so be patient. You must have had a chance to understand her a little by now, so try to get along with the side of her that you know. Perhaps she has a good sense of humour hidden under her shyness. Let her know you enjoy it. Reassure in different ways that she's attractive to you without actually putting it in so many words. Praise her about her abilities and talents - and this will increase her comfort level.

Listening to her is one of the best ways to draw her out. And when we say listen, we mean listen, not just hear. Everyone is passionate about something, and find out what her love is. It is always easier to become comfortable talking about a hobby or interest instead of a conversation that involves personal information. She'll like the fact that you are an attentive listener, since it will reassure her that you genuinely care about what she has to say.  And once you have reached that comfort level, just ask her out on a date. She'll say yes.

7 Jan 2005 by RaftingCanadian 1.1K
0
Votes
Reply To: Musical Instruments

The viol da gamba (alternatively viola da gamba or just viol) family of musical instruments is related to the vihuela, rebec, etc.

The instrument has its roots in the guitar; it is thought that guitarists began playing their instruments with a bow in the 15th century. This eventually led to the evolution of an entirely new instrument, which had many of the features of the guitar (flat back, frets), but was bowed rather than plucked. This new instrument was at first held in the same way as a guitar, but later began to be held upright, either resting on the lap or held between the legs like a cello, giving it the name viola da gamba, Italian for "viol of the leg."

Some texts have stated that the gamba was a forerunner to the violin family, but there is no historical evidence for this at all. The violin had entirely different origins, and during the Renaissance it was thought to be a very inferior instrument to the viol.

The viol is fretted, like a guitar (although with moveable, tied-on frets made of gut), and usually has six strings, though examples with only five strings do exist. A low seventh string (A'') was added in France by Sainte Colombe, who taught many of the French gamba virtuosi of the 18th century. Unlike members of the violin family, which are tuned in fifths, the gamba is tuned in fourths and one third in the middle, rather like a lute or guitar. The bow is held underhand and is convex rather than concave like a modern violin bow.

The gamba (as it is often foreshortened) comes in 4 sizes: treble, tenor, bass, and double bass (also known as a violone). The treble is about the size of a violin (but with a deeper body); the bass is a bit smaller than a cello. A closely related instrument is the viola d'amore.

The standard tuning of the viol is in 4ths, with a 3rd in the middle (like the standard lute tuning). For treble and bass the notes would be (from the highest) d',a,e,c,G,D and for the tenor g,d,A,F,C,G'. The treble is one octave higher than the bass. Other tunings were employed, particularly in the solo lyra viol style of playing, which also made use of many techniques such as chords and pizzicato (i.e. plucking rather than bowing the strings), which were not generally used in consort playing. An unusual style of pizzicato was known as a thump. Lyra viol music was also written in tablature, and there is a vast repertoire of this music, some by well-known composers, but a lot of it anonymous.

The instrument was common among amateurs, and many homes would have a so-called chest of viols which would contain one or more instruments of each size. Gamba ensembles, called consorts, were common in the 16th and 17th centuries, when they performed vocal music (consort songs or verse anthems) as well as that written specifically for instruments. Music for consorts was very popular in England in Elizabethan times, with composers such as William Byrd, John Dowland and during the reign of King Charles I by composers such as John Jenkins and William Lawes. The last music for viol consorts before their modern revival was probably written in the 1680s by Henry Purcell.

The bass viola da gamba continued to be used (as a solo instrument and also to accompany the harpsichord in basso continuo) into the 18th century, by which time it had acquired associations of courtliness and antiquity; However, the instrument fell out of use as concert halls grew larger, and the louder and somewhat more strident tone of the violin family became more popular. In the last one hundred years or so, the viola da gamba has been revived by early music enthusiasts.

7 Jan 2005 by RaftingCanadian 1.1K