An Introduction

    Although I thought that I did not have much experience with this type of music, I have realized that I have heard many of the songs that we have listened to or that I have looked into for my presentation prior to the course (especially the songs by Irving Berlin). I do enjoy a wide variety of genres. I wouldn't say that I have a favorite because it really depends on the mood that I am in, or how I am feeling  that determines what songs, artists, or genres I listen to. I appreciate all types of music, and I have enjoyed all of the songs that we've listened to in class so far. However, I have enjoyed all of the Jazz-type songs that we have listened to the most. I wouldn't say that I am brand new to thinking about the technical aspects of music such as melody, but I would say that I am new to thinking about context of music. I typically don't look into the background of many artists or eras of music, but now I may have to start because it is actually pretty interesting. 

    I am most excited to be introduced to new music in this course. Like I mentioned before, I have an appreciation for all types of music so I am looking forward to expanding my listening even more. I think the topics will contribute to a deeper understanding of music in general, and being able to recognize more of the technical aspects that I do not know. It may even encourage me to attempt taking up playing an instrument again. I think it will also expand my knowledge on the history of music eras, and the deeper meanings and context behind certain song lyrics. Culture and music are so intertwined and i'm looking forward to being able to think about the songs categorized under the GAS in a different way than I would have if I listened to them on my own prior to the course. I think my knowledge on the relationship between music history and topics such as race and gender will really be expanded and allow me to take a different approach when thinking about it. 

    This song "The Very Thought of You" is not one that I have heard before, but I really enjoyed it. I was drawn to the melody and the instruments playing in the background. His voice was very relaxing and I noticed that it was a very romanticized song about longingness or dreaming, like many of the ones that we've listened to. Although his voice is very strong, there is an instrumental portion as well. It reminded me of the Jazz songs that we have listened to which is why I think I was really drawn to it as well.