Viol da gamba project

For some reason I decided that I was not busy enough, and embarked on a journey through the realm of period instruments. The Uconn Collegium group, which performs on authentic recreations of instruments from the 1200-1600's, will be traveling to Ecuador in the spring. As a string major, I found picking up the tenor and bass viol da gamba easier than expected. WHAT IS A VIOL DA GAMBA?
well, let me just tell you:
the viol is a precursor to the modern day violin/cello/viola/bass. It has six strings and 8 or so frets. The intervals of the strings are tuned in the same manner as a guitar. Fourths plus a major third and two more major fourths. The bow is closely related to german bass bow, and is held between the thumb and index fingers, so that pressure can be applied to the bow hair for different strokes and tones. (fear not, I will put pictures up of so you can see what I am talking about).

I also am working on some solo pieces as well as duets and trio ensembles for my recital on November 30th. so you should all check that out. I'll maybe upload some videos later of me playing the thing so you can get a feel for what it sounds like.

Prog-Power 2010

Yes, I guess I'm one of those people now.  I went to a two day music festival this past weekend in Atlanta Georgia. It was quite the experience let me tell you, 20 hours of live music from some amazing bands(and some realllly not so great ones). What is Prog-Power one might ask? There is not a good answer, but basically 13 Progressive Rock/ and Power Metal Bands perform at one of the top music venues in the world. I normally would not go to such a thing as this, but two of my favorite progressive rock bands, Seventh Wonder and DGM, along with Kamelot, were performing. And HEY, I'm young and adventurous and I want stories to tell when I'm old and grumpy. Over all it was a fantastic weekend. Atlanta is one of the most beautiful cities that I have ever visited.

The food is amazing! If you ever go to Atlanta find a place called TAPS. The blackened chicken sandwich is sooooooooooooo good.  but anyhow, back to the music...

 

Us with Michale Erikson, lead singer for Circus Maximus. He was just walking around the venue.

My favorite prog band...Seventh Wonder!!!!! The bass player is the crazy looking one, and he is epic at his instrument.

Us at a cool little place that served the best Peace Ice Tea in the World!

And part of the group on Sunday, looking tired/ridiculous