Singing in Company

Watch this hilarious video of what NOT to do when singing in company (or solo). Unfortunately it is so true...

If you can't view the video, click here.

This ensemble, I Fagiolini, is a great inspiration for me (I saw them live). Not because of their musicality and technique (which are great) but for their inventive and creative ability. There are many ensembles who can sing this music, each with their own interpretation, but they go a step further and aim to create an experience which goes beyond music. They find innovative ways to make their music more meaningful using different means of arts and technology; for example drama or sound engineering. Yes, they can be viewed as plain gimmicks, but I think those "gimmicks" allow the audience to view the old pieces in a new light which is more relevant to their current life.

Purists may claim that those "gimmicks" are there to "cover up" for an inability to pass the message of the composer (and poet) in a more abstract way. Others may say that some pieces have been performed so many times that one has to pour new meaning into them or they will forever be compared to that one perfect recording done in 1954 by X. What do you think is the role of the performer (other than get attention, dress nicely and have notorious temper tantrums)? Comments are welcome!