Dawson Vrana

  Musical History of Russia      As with any sort of musical history from many different countries of regions, The music can be very diverse. Today we will be focusing on Russian classical music that began to from during the Tsardom of Russia.       Russia was relatively slow in the growth of its musical diversity, the church was apposed to any sort of secular music or music for simply entertainment as well as it relatively removed interactions from musically progressive countries. Western composers were brought over to westernize Russia and jump start Russias musical culture. This meant that Russia composers fell by the wayside due to the previous "one trick pony" approach that had been used previously. Thus they attempted to compose in a western style, although this was difficult to achieve since they had little experience with the method.  Russian Orthodox Church music      Russian Orthodox music has a heavy e...

The Microphone It's hard to think about singing and not inherently assume you would have a microphone. In today's age, it is an integral part of almost all singing and musical venues you will see. But of course there was a time before the microphone, and that's where we will start.  Singing before the advent of the microphone Before the microphone, singing was done in much smaller venues. A tenor style of voice was prefered for its ability to project loudly and fill a room, such as Al Jolson on Broadway. This also impacted the style of music being created and performed, it wasn't necessarily limited, but there was not as much variety in style.  Nobody wants to listen to music they cant hear!        Microphones in music Once microphones and amplification began working its way into the music industry a whole new era ensued. Larger venues, different vocal ranges became more favorable, and allowing events to be held in more areas.  This also allowed p...

Musical analysis #2 In Color- Jamey Johnson In Color Jamey Johnson  " In Color" By Jamey Johnson was released in 2008. Once again, a song depicting a story, my favorite type of song! The song is a story about a grandfather telling stories to his grandson about his life and experiences. He does this by showing photographs from major events in his life. Such as his time in the Second World War and his wedding day.  When listening to the song, it brings me back to conversations Iva had with my grandfather, it's slow, with methodical and purposeful words, seeing the gears turn in his head as he remembers more details.  Tempo:  The songs run time is 4 minutes 51 seconds at 130 beats per minute. Although the beats per minute are fairly average for a country song, when you listen to it, it feels a lot slower with drawn out words and trailing off thoughts.  Lyrics:  "Oh, and this one here's taken overseas In the middle of hell in 1943 in the winter time Y...

  Musical Analysis: " Fast Car" - Luke Combs  This song is a rendition of the original song released by Tracy Chapman in 1988. Not only is this song one of my favorites it is an amazing throwback to a beautiful song that could've been lost in the digital landfill of music at everyone’s fingertips today.   Fast Car - Luke Combs The powerful melody not only got Tracy Chapman widespread recognition but Luke Combs as well. This song won the CMA award for song of the year, and single of the year. It is no surprise he decided to sing this song as his manager stated Tracy Chapman was one of Luke's favorite artists.  I absolutely love songs that tell a story. Especially one that is so raw and true to life, and poetic. This is a song that each person takes something different away from. whether that's the objective story being told, the desire for something better, leaving a poor situation, or remembering an extremely vivid and cherished memory.  I think this song truly ...

 Hello! My name is Dawson Vrana, I am 20 years old and was born and raised in Alaska. Even though I've lived in Alaska, I wouldn't say I am your typical Alaskan. I grew up on a farm mending fences and taking care of horses. From the time I was able to walk, my father taught me how to care for, and treat horses.  I was a bull rider growing up for the Texas Rattlers until I sustained a very bad injury. Aside from that, I love being outdoors whenever possible. I am currently living in Fairbanks pursuing a degree in petroleum engineering.  Naturally, I love country music. It is almost all I listen to. This is probably due to growing up with my father, who was a full fledged cowboy and professional bull rider. I think there is a lot to be learned form country music. People say it all sounds the same. But I think it is more about the message and relatability that truly makes it good music. Not every song of course, but many of them are very impactful in my mind.  This song...