Universe

any idea, or suggestion? we need it this coming sunday Aug 19. thank you!!!

Brother Puloi,
Sorry I just read this. While it is too late for the event date you mentioned, maybe we can get you started toward the next performance.
Before I can make some strong suggestions I would ask a few questions.
1. Is the Performance strong already? Words, directions and speaking emphasis good? Those things need to be well polished before adding the extras. They can make something very good even better, but often show off flaws in a weak presentation.
2. Tell me about the interpretation of the presenter: Strong voice or quiet. Bass or tenor? Is there a statement or an ethnic spin you are trying to combine with the message of the Father Talk (in other words, Celtic, Classical, Spanish Guitar, mystery, high drama, quiet mood,,,) There are so many different ways to go. Clarify some of these things for me and I can make some "possible" suggestions. Then do trial and error. Some pieces work for some people, some don't. Just make it your special presentation while complimenting the ceremony!

Using music to enhance the Ritual is always an excellent idea as long as the music is well chosen and appropriate.

As Dad Martino has indicated, what is appropriate depends on what effect you are trying to achieve. If you don't KNOW what effect you are trying to achieve, you aren't ready to choose music yet.

For example, the "heroic tragedy' that is one interpretation of the DeMolay Degree can be introduced by music that combines both heroic and sad elements. A symphonic performance of the "Theme from Exodus" will set that tone, but that isn't the ONLY music that will work with that interpretation.

Good music can be found in seemingly unlikely places. Another approach to the DeMolay Degree can be the track "Crystal" from Mannheim Steamroller's Fresh Aire IV CD.

Ironically the Track "Embers" off the same CD works well for the Third Section (Closing Oration) of the DeMolay Degree, too.

Listen to as many different kinds of music as possible, and always keep the thought "What could I use that for?" in the back of your mind. You will be amazed at what you can find.

Secondary point:
I always remember Dan Mehn mentioning two word to be used for evaluatory criteria when choosing degree music.
Authentic and Effective.

By "authentic" Dan meant things like the correct time period for your interpretation, instrumentation, style and composer, etc. Gregorian Chants would work for the DeMolay Degree as "authentic" pieces of music. Exodus, in Dad Dietzman's example would not be "authentic". But that would NOT necessarily mean you should not, or could not use it. You may want to make some points and communicate some things that the mood of Exodus can do that Gregorian Chants would not be able to. You should NOT, however, mix the two, in my humble opinion.

Thus, Exodus would be an "effective" piece of music! The "effective" point is the one I tried to make in my earlier post. Does the music you are looking at help tell the story you and the ceremony in question are trying to tell.

Dan and I were discussing a really wild and far-out Intiatory AND DeMolay Degree interpretation using heavy metal music, makeup, costuming, hand held video cameras, large projection screens, lighting and special effects. It was never intended for Candidates, but for active members and veterans. Much more a production and presentation, not a real Initiation. Would it have been "authentic"? No way!
Would it have been "effective"? Oh Yeah!

Please post here and let us know what you are working on and looking at!

Well, my brethren first of all i would like to thank you for your suggestions... in fairness the ceremony went well... we have decided the Gregorian chant "When a Man loves a woman" and fortunately it went well.

But for next time, hopefully we'll make it more dramatic and excellent...

puloi,

What part of the country you are from: Luzon, Visayas or Mindanao?

Salamat,

Pinoynabrodako

cats in the cradle bruvs!!!!!

Edmaruu,

I like dogs bro!