3, 2, 1, Action!
Walked into class on Wednesday and was warmly welcomed by a huge tub of recording equipment and gadgets! I've used some of these condenser and dynamic microphones from the Conservatorium in my previous compositions before, however it was my first time working with live professional recording cameras and setting up studio flash lights! Although photography and studio setup is quite new for me, I did pick up a few tips and techniques here and there!
Number 1 Tip. Lighting matters! The angle and positioning of lights can set the tone and mood of what is being recorded; e.g. 'Rembrandt Lighting' which draws attention to the eyes using contrast between both light and shadow on the face, evoking a mysterious feel...
Another tip I found quite fascinating was the way in which we should hold a hand-held camera. In order to hold the camera efficiently without resulting in a sore arm is apparently NOT to hold it using the provided hand strap, but to rest it on the palm of hand, locking the elbow into the side of the hip for support. This one's definitely useful when filming hours of material!
Without a doubt, this workshop was all fun and games however, one might ask,
"So how does this apply to Music Education? Are we now expected to be professional photographers or perhaps even open our own film studio?"
Answer is, of course not!
Though what we do need to realise as music educators, is the necessity to have some basic knowledge of how to operate recording equipment, and at the very least, set up microphones for recorded and live performances! Music nowadays has unquestionably surpassed the traditional, "take a seat and watch the School Concert Band or Orchestra perform at the annual School Music Gala Night". Having said that, I am by no means advocating to dismiss School Concert Nights - I very much enjoy rehearsing with school ensembles both large and small, and working towards putting on an amazing night of music for students, parents, staff and community to enjoy. Furthermore, I strongly believe that it is such a wonderful opportunity for student participation and to showcase the school's many talented musicians. However, wouldn't recording a wonderful Year 9's performance task singing Adele's, "Someone Like You" or perhaps shooting a video of Year 7's group composition on the "12 - bar Blues" to post onto the school's online community page, be an even greater way to share students' work while also boosting school morale? Music and videos nowadays go viral within a matter of minutes, so why don't we as facilitators of student learning, make use of this opportunity to further promote our school music programs and Music the subject itself, through the use of technology as a medium and a useful resource?
Comments