Noh Classical Theater

Noh Classical Theater

Originating in the 14^th century, Noh Classical Theater is representative of highly standardized dramas that draw heavily from the traditions and spiritual elements that are embedded in the Japanese culture. Many of the plays are directly influenced by ancient and mythological history. To an untrained eye, the experience of viewing a performance can be daunting or even perhaps long and drawn out. Conversely, to a seasoned audience, the experience can transcend the individual through time to a place of deeper inner connection.

Through my youtube viewing experience, there were a couple of key elements that seemed to link many of the performances. The tempos of the pieces were very slow and in many many cases the rhythm was nonpulsatile. The actors were generally emotionless and expressed rigid movements. In some of the performances the actors wore face paint but more often they were adorned with decorative face masks. The structure in terms of logical chronology is pretty much nonexistent. The characteristics of timelessness and impromptu nature in regard to rhythm lends itself to the elements of Zen. More specifically, Zen is an art form in which Buddhists believe that the use of such structure doesn’t conform to the ideals of meditation and inward expression that are vastly incorporated into the expression of Noh Classical Theater.

Post #3: UTD Faculty Concert

It was a cold and windy Friday night with a full house ready to be entertained by the rhythmic sounds of Latin music. This was the scene this past Friday at the UTD faculty concert entitled "An Evening of Latin Music". The conference center auditorium was the venue for this casual event and this room provided for a very intimate as well as enhanced listening experience. The crowd consisted mostly of UTD students, a few teachers, and patrons of the community showing support for the arts. I don't recall any children being present; presumbably, because of the 8 pm timing in which the concert took place.

Being really intrigued by most of the performances of the night, I would have to say that music of "How Insensitive and Lamento" captured my attention most. The overall feel of these pieces were jazzy with Latin rhythms evenly placed. Instruments included a piano, electric guitar, bass and drums. These performances truly drew me in because they were more upbeat and I felt that the performers were more passionate, especially the drummer. The syncopated rhythm provided by the bass and drums were very rich , and the piano and guitar accompanied nicely. If I found myself lost, it was quite easy to find the beat with the steady bass going. They started rather slow but quickly gained pace, each ending with a slight climax. The audience held quiet while the perfomers gained momentum and gave much praise in the form of applause when the music ended. Overall, it was quite an event and the concert as a whole was quality entertainment!