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NJJ Inner circle 6437 Posts |
Peter Marruci refered to the 'backwater of entertainment' that magic often finds itself. We seem to be 10 years behind everyone else in terms of style and trends (does anyone want to play spot the mullet....I'm looking at you Mr James)
The same is true for musical choices. I've been talking to many magicians about the music they use and it really is some of the most dated music around. Don't get me wrong, I'm not talking about OLD, timeless music but music which DATES. We pull out songs like "Pump Up The Jam" to appear energetic or cool when really this song was popular when I was a school over ten years ago! Or we play sythesized elevator music! Or we play any song with the word Magic in it: (Its a kind of magic, magic man) Or Enya! ARGHHH! I think we need to watch more films and TV shows and see how THEY use music! Thanks all, I just needed to get that out of my system! |
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Majiloon Regular user 135 Posts |
I believe you are absolutely right Nicholas,
This is a topic very near to me- and one that I have been wrestling with myself for more than 15 years. It requires constant work, but the pay-off is well worth it. It is not an easy topic to discuss, or even convince people of the importance you are brining up. But I do think you may be a little hard on some folks, as many of us find it intimidating to incorporate music into our presentations. It is too expensive, too complicated, too time consuming, too subjective, too simple, or many of us take the fundamentals for granted (or maybe we don’t know the fundamentals). And we end up taking short-cuts, without knowing that we have consequently generated distractions. In order to get your music up-dated- you need the help of a musician with a degree- or a successful composer who is “in the business”. I have these and much more included n my new report coming out soon off my new web site. Would it surprise you that the inventor of the VSM – had such philosophies, or motivations behind the development of a hands free music controller? I absolutely did, because I believe that music should be thought of as a subtle artificial environment- and especially needed today- because what has happened to the Western culture audiences in the last 20 years. Remember that music is a delicate second character in your show- one that has to compliment WHO YOU ARE and not so much of what you do. You will be able to download this PDF 90 page report and read for yourself- who some of my favorite contacts are- and what they have to say. I don’t have very many contacts- but what I do have is enough to get you started on the right road. The report is designed to help you shift your thinking into a new paradigm for the most part, and it is one of the main driving motivations behind the development of my hands free controller. There is a lot of material to cover in the report- But your topic is well-needed now- Nichols, I hope this begins a productive discussion. Cheers, Kelly Duro
No longer taking Private messages , thank you.
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NJJ Inner circle 6437 Posts |
I like to use classic intrumental swing and jazz music. Its classy yet has a light, humourous atomsphere about it.
Kelly said "Remember that music is a delicate second character in your show- one that has to compliment WHO YOU ARE and not so much of what you do. " That is very true. If you think about music in that way, you are far less likely to rush in a make silly choices. If you watch the second series of The Office, you'll see one of the characters using Tina Turners "Your Simply The Best" in a motivational speech and then you'll understand how harmeful using music can be. |
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RaveNyou New user 16 Posts |
Try this link for some new music:
http://www.opus1productions.com/html/festivus_maximus.html |
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Rob Johnston Inner circle Utah 2060 Posts |
For some reason, my disco collection doesn't seem to work very well....
oh well...
"Genius is another word for magic, and the whole point of magic is that it is inexplicable." - Margot Fonteyn
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The Donster Inner circle 4817 Posts |
Gee Disco and what are CDs I still have eight tracks.
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Rob Johnston Inner circle Utah 2060 Posts |
No one is EVER hooked up to play 8 Tracks......too bad.
"Genius is another word for magic, and the whole point of magic is that it is inexplicable." - Margot Fonteyn
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kenscott Inner circle 1869 Posts |
As someone that uses a lot of music (using a Showtech), I like to use all different types of music. AS Nicholas's ex. of Pump of Jam. I think there is a a time an place for all music. If a song like that would fit well into a show then I see nothing wrong with using it.
Someone mentined DISCo this year I am doing a routine where I burn a shoe up and restore using the Chalets wizcote. The music I am using is Boogie shoes by KC sunshine band. The song is perfect fit for my routine. I think what people that choose to add music should do is yes go to the movies see what is in style but most importanly find tracks that fit your style and fits the routine. Since using music in my shows for over 11 years now it has added so much to the show. Could not imagine not having it or not using my showtech to control it. Ken |
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MDS Special user USA 528 Posts |
I agree with Ken 100%. And I know what you mean, I don't know how I got by without my VSM for all of those years.
Matthew |
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NJJ Inner circle 6437 Posts |
Music is like a super power isn't it?
It makes your oridinary routine suddenly slick and professional! But as Spiderman tells us "With great power, comes great reponsibility." |
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Majiloon Regular user 135 Posts |
All the years I have been in the business- I have met precious few illusionists who were even somewhat eloquent enough to open there mouth while on stage… lets face it- we are not Orson Wells… But even those who are trained to speak- have music beds behind them.
Adding music should be thought of (in most cases)- more important than the effect itself. While I develop show ideas- I first clarify what story- message, or idea I want to get across. When I have this mapped out, I then listen for music that inspires, music that makes sense. This often then- lends itself to revealing what effects I need. This requires me to invent some things- or re-dress props that I had used before. This may sound backwards to you- I know- because in my early years- I started with the effects I wanted to use- then thought about the music later… I believe that this is wrong- and is amateur. Music should envelope not just enhance, but also become instrumental in suspending the disbelief- and sometimes music is the only element that can maintain that psychological edge. This is true for shows of demonstration or cerebral presentations like mentalism, or even for the lively spontaneous comedy show. If you are going to inspire or carry the audience, then the music must become the first element of consideration- not a hasty afterthought. The idea can be summed up with this- Music inspires me – personally, creatively, and emotionally- then it needs to inspire my audience with what I am to present to them. So- for me it all starts with music first. Cheers, Kelly Duro
No longer taking Private messages , thank you.
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RaveNyou New user 16 Posts |
Again, if you're looking for music to actually inspire you, there's nothing that comes close to what is at: http://www.Opus1Productions.com
Check out 'Festivus Maximus' or 'Imagination' for some truly new ways of creating a routine or illusion. |
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Andy Wonder Special user Auckland, New Zealand 747 Posts |
He hee. Take a look at this 'The 70's Are Back!'
I think set would be awesome for a magic show. What do you think Nick?
Andy Wonder, Auckland, New Zealand
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The Mirror Images Inner circle Michigan/USA 1980 Posts |
Hey we used Its a Kind of Magic. That is a great song....but I do understand....the music just doesn't fit with today...I think it comes down to that some do not have the ability to create music or edit music to fit there style...or do any remakes with beats or what not.....
Hey anyone uses the Beatles by chance. That stuff is great....I think Franz Haray uses Yellow Submerine for his Illusion....just kidding guys. Franz Rocks. Michael
Steven and Michael, The Mirror Images
The MOST Identical Twin Illusionist http://www.themirrorimages.com Check out our latest new effect - Liquid Steel NEW - MotoBox NEW - MotoMation NEW - Voyager |
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Majiloon Regular user 135 Posts |
I really wish some of you would spend time with Arthur Stead or Tommy Tierney-
If you had any idea how impressive adding professional music to you presentation becomes, you would be knocking down his door. If Arthur or Tommy does custom work- you would be blowing the doors off your competition. It is rare to find someone like Arthur who is making himself available on line like this- and in the business for us. When I started using custom music- I went from getting paid - $150 for a show- and in a years time it went to $550. But 5 years later it went no less than $1500, (in most cases). Adding custom music sets you apart- as does the mindset of continually clarifying your presentation. I not only make more money for my shows- but I am enjoying myself more, and have the tremendous satisfaction that nobody else has the wherewithal to compete with me, as I have become an original. You have the absolute confidence that you have arrived. Now- isn't that a worthy goal?! Isn’t that what your audience’s expect- (maybe you are not aware of what audiences expect – or want)… Cheers, Kelly Duro
No longer taking Private messages , thank you.
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Wards Back New user Baker's Acres, Ca 83 Posts |
You are spot on Kelly,
Anyone who doesn't believe that music/sound is just as important as the visual aspect of a performance should try watching ANY major motion picture with the sound turned off.
"Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic."
Chris. |
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Christopher Moro Special user 793 Posts |
May I ask...what is a VSM?
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Christopher Moro Special user 793 Posts |
Strike that last post. I got the answer!
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daffydoug Eternal Order Look mom! I've got 14077 Posts |
I agree with all of you on the importance of music. Problem is this: If you are a little guy with a very limited budget, how the hell do you ever find a way to afford proffesional music? That would bankrupt me. I would HAVE to start asking $500.00 for a performance, and when folks asked why all I could tell them is "Well, I use professional music, and it costs me more to do it that way." They would most likely say "Oh" as they hung up the phone in search of someone in a more affordable range. So that leaves me stuck with a VERY expensive show that I can't pay for or book. Now what do I do?
Truth is, I have tried to incorporate good music into the show with some of the CDs put out by Rand Woodbury, but then I had to make sure that I always had a sound crew with me to play it, and that is more expense. And if one is trying to go "Packs Small Plays Big" as I am now reducing myself down to, the extra time of seting up sound systems etc negates from the purpose, whic is simply this: To walk smartly into the performanbce venue, hav your show ready to go in seconds, perform the show, be instantly packed, and get your fee and briskly leave, onto your next venue with dispatch and alacrity. No fuss no bother, no hassle. Just plain EFFICIENCY in coming and going which results in less strain and stress. Reduces your travel troubles. Music systems of course, (Not to mention lighting systems) Take up TIME and energy. I suppose what one has to decide is whether the trade off is worth it. Me, I'm getting older and don't have the energy and spark I used to, and extra packing and unpacking drains me. I prefer to keep it simple and short and sweet. And that is where the crux of my dilemna comes in. Fact is I LOVE enhancing my show with music. But how do I do it and still remain cost efficent and time efficient? And how do I find GREAT music for little cost without hiring live people to do it?
The difficult must become easy, the easy beautiful and the beautiful magical.
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Majiloon Regular user 135 Posts |
Hey Doug-
I appreciate your candor, and courage to speak up with what has to be a common frustration. At the top of your post, you said “the little guy with a limited budget”. I think if people’s mindset is to cheap out on the content of their show, then they will remain a “little guy”. I for one came to a point in my career where I did not want to be doing convalescent homes, or Pre-school shows in order to make my bills- forever. I didn’t want to keep my prices so low so as to entice the “folks always on a budget” types that made for a hectic show schedule. There came a point where I suddenly saw myself as a cookie cutter magic guy that was easily replaced by any idiot with a flaming torch or a rubber nose. I realized that I had to become memorable, original, or authentic in order to get re-booked or more importantly- referred to others, as my customers would network with others who also needed a quality referral. If referrals come from folks who are emotionally enthusiastic about your stuff- they will refer you to higher caliber venues then someone who is financially motivated. I had to find a way to separate myself from the low end “jobbers” because I was too easily replaced or my only way to compete was to keep my prices low. I hated being a “little guy”. So did my wife! I think David Copperfield had it right as he came to the same place one day while in desperation- let me quote what he has written on his own web site; ..”I starved in New York for a year, and my dad would slip me a few bucks to pay the heating bill. I sat in my apartment inventing magic, finding the right music, and staging routines. I knocked on a lot of doors and sent out a lot of videotapes. One day I got a phone call to be the host of a TV show. I was 19, and I couldn't believe it. His background was in theater and music, so he put the two together with his magic and began his journey into becoming authentic and original. Music was the start- as it no doubt became intrinsic with his story, who he was, and what he wanted to convey. He took a chance with all he had left while broke and little resources. For me- my desperation point was that I hated being passed up for jobs by some other acts that were cheaper, when I had to make my rent, and pay for the credit card bills for all the magic stuff I bought at the last convention. Heck- I had a garage full of ‘other peoples shtick’. So I took a chance, and a time of leave to reevaluate my avocation. I haven’t looked back much at all since then. Doug also said- “how the hell do you ever find a way to afford professional music? That would bankrupt me. I would HAVE to start asking $500.00 for a performance, and when folks asked why all I could tell them is "Well, I use professional music, and it costs me more to do it that way.” It doesn’t work that way- this is backwards. You have to start little by little with the mindset that you are becoming more original and authentic so as to keep your presentation in their minds longer. There are a lot of royalty free music cuts out there- enough to add to any show. Selecting the right sound and textures for the presentation takes a little work but you can start there. Find some stuff you like particularly after a while, and go to a composer and get his or her opinion on how to shape it and make it more updated and hip. This is the start, and can take up to a year at first. It could cost you maybe $500 for everything at first- but that is over a year’s time. You need the right resources to help you and not spend a lot of money with bad musicians. That’s where I can help- My special report should be coming out in a couple weeks. It will contain some good referrals to get you started. My customers can get some free coaching, or I can send you in another direction if I don’t have all the answers. Along the way- you will see you audiences reaction to your presentation transform into what you always wanted. It is an amazing transformation. But it takes a little courage at first- putting your priorities in order. Re-arranging your goals- maybe higher than you thought could be attainable. David Copperfield certainly had higher goals. He eventually found music that was intrinsic with his personality and what he wanted to convey at the same time. It isn’t all custom music, but he’s found a way to pay the fees. This would be a great time to set new goals- even as we come to a NEW YEAR- Make a new resolution to give more to your audiences especially if it costs you at first- Promise that you will spend money on making what you do more authentic this new year. I promise you that they will remember you – and appreciate you more. Soon, you wont be a little guy anymore, or passed up for jobs. Heck, you might need to raise you fees to keep from too much work. (Imagine that) Changing your mindset to thinking about investing in what makes me more original or authentic with the use of custom music will separate you from everyone else- who can copy that? So now you’re working for higher fees, and made more indelible impressions on your audience, the dilemma you thought you had a year ago is now one that faces your competition. Let him drop the ball! Happy New Year! Become your own special effect Cheers, Kelly Duro
No longer taking Private messages , thank you.
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