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:
$19.99
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