Performing with
Synthesizers: A Personal Perspective
and live concert
footage
An Overview of Electronic Instruments
was released on VHS and quickly became one of the best selling videos on
electronic music. Because it focuses on concepts and performance rather
than specific instruments, it is still being used in music appreciation and
music technology classes. This DVD release has been digitally remastered for
improved video and audio quality. In addition, chapter markers have been
added for each topic.
The DVD also includes Performing with
Synthesizers: a Personal Perspective. In this new documentary
featurette Don Muro describes his work with synthesizers, beginning with the
Moog synthesizer in 1970. The video includes live performances featuring
legendary instruments such as the ARP 2600 synthesizer, the Roland TR-808 drum
machine, the Korg M1 music workstation and the world's first MIDI pedalboard.
The bonus
Extras section includes live concert footage of Don performing on his
multi-keyboard setup.
"An Overview of Electronic
Instruments is a valuable record of the development of technology-based
music performance...Muro, a recognized expert in music performance
technology, has been intimately involved in that area for several
generations of its development. Muro's personal connection to music
performance technology lends an interesting perspective to the practical
concerns of electronic musicians...
(Performing with
Synthesizers) is a fascinating look into the needs of a master performer
from his use of the Moog modular synthesizer through modern polyphonic
instruments such as the Korg M1...This DVD is an excellent historical record
of early electronic instruments and would be valuable for teachers and
students interested in preserving that history."
Music Educators Journal, March 2008
"There is good variety in the
musical selections, many by Muro, but others from standard musical
repertoire, including the Gigue Fugue by Bach. During
performance there are close-ups and split screens, to show his hands and his
feet (he uses a custom-made digital organ pedal board, which showcases his
training as a classical organist). All segments are in color, explanation is
verbal with no on-screen text, and the visuals are thoughtfully presented
without glitzy effects. It is worth the price of the video to
hear/watch Muro perform—always the consummate artist committed to
excellence."
School Music News,
December 2007
"Don Muro's "Overview of
Electronic Instruments" is as valid a work today as it was when first
released. While the instruments and technologies have changed and progressed
since this video was originally made, the concepts and ideas presented are
relevant and useful. Don's musicality is timeless and exciting to witness,
especially in the new video documentary Performing with Synthesizers and in
the live concert recordings. The historical perspective alone makes this an
excellent work for anyone interested in the development of today's music
technology wonders. Today, as we progress from hardware to software, we
still need to connect to the physical act of music-making, and Don's many
musical performances included on this disc help remind us of the importance
of instrumental technique and traditional musical values in performing with
technology."
David Mash, founder of the
nation's first music synthesis department and Vice President for Information
Technology at Berklee College
“The DVD
includes a new video, Synthesizers in Performance, which provides a
fascinating look at Don’s work with synthesizers starting with the Moog. I
highly recommend this DVD to anyone with an interest in music technology and/or
electronic music. Teachers will find it to be an excellent demonstration and
historic overview for students grades six through college.”
Dr. Thomas Rudolph, Author, Clinician, Educator.
President of TI:ME (Technology Institute for Music Educators)
Reviews from the original
release:
“…Narrator and a performer Don Muro is a
recognized leader in electronic music technology. His musical virtuosity
is exemplary; as a synthesist, he demonstrates the capabilities of electronic
music with a high degree of skill…”
Music Educators Journal
“The multi-camera photography, split images,
and stunning stereo soundtrack of Muro performing his own compositions are
captivating.”
The Instrumentalist
“…Muro’s narrative is clear, and his
musicianship is impeccable. The stereo soundtrack provides some
breathtaking effects…the quality is outstanding...”
Music Performance Resources
Item #: JDW392
Cost: $10.00
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