Music Music Music

Well its been a long time since I did a blog post and yes it's music that has inspired me to get going again. I looked at my last post and it was all about the T mobile film of folks dancing in Liverpool Street Station. Watch it again here Join In! and then watch how it was made to get a few hints if you want to try something similar or want to get people to participate or join in. How it was made

I indulged in a wander up and down the Royal Mile in Edinburgh recently to see some fringe performers. I had not indulged in this for a few years and my recollection is that there was more fun, music, dance and spontaneity on previous visits.

A stylish wedding at St Giles upstaged everyone by attracting the biggest crowd who hung around until the bride appeared and gave her a wee cheer and a round of applause. A lot of planning would have gone into that event!

On the Royal Mile, some folks were trying to engage the passing crowds without much success. One of their party felt that not enough planning had been done. Getting people to participate is not as easy as the t mobile film makes it look and of course when you watch the 'how it was made' video you realise that there was a lot of preparation and planning. Some great comments from those who took part spontaneously at the end - they comment on how the music transformed their mood for the day, while one young man tells of how it made him feel connected with the people around him. Strong stuff this music then!

A few weeks ago, I attended a nostalgic night in Glasgow called 'Kings of Swing' featuring the music of singers like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and others from the big band era. Some of the audience going into the theatre looked elderly and moved stiffly and slowly. However, there was a noticeable spring to their step on the way out. The power of music and memory of course. Wonder if it's prescribed on the National Health Service then?