A few cool things

Today, I’ll be looking at a couple of gadgets that can either come in really handy or are simply a blast to use. It’s the Easter season, so we should have a little bit of fun.

First: the Ninja Remote.

This little guy is about the size of three quarters, and comes with a handy keychain. But what is its real purpose? It’s one of the smallest (almost) universal remotes on the market. Use it when you’re feeling lazy and don’t want to reach for the real remote. However, it comes in really handy when you feel like scaring your friends. Suddenly the TV mutes for no apparent reason! Or maybe the channel changes! Your TV is possessed!
The ninja remote is available for $8.99 from ThinkGeek.

Finally, a device that may actually come in very handy: the MoGo Mouse.

This mouse, available from Newton Peripherals, is one of the most unique wireless mice in the world. It uses Bluetooth technology and has a rechargeable battery, but what makes it truly unique is the fact that it fits inside your PCI card slot, and recharges its battery there. Flipping the little kickstand open turns the mouse on.
The MoGo feels surprisingly natural, although this is definitely a dexterity-based mouse, and not a strength-based one; you need a finer touch to use it well.
Downsides include the lack of a scroll wheel, the buttons have a slightly less “crisp” click after a decent amount of use…and it sells for an impressive $69.99. But it is definitely worth looking at if you will frequently travel and need a cordless mouse.

Copyright, video, and ensembles

http://mustech.wordpress.com/2007/03/19/assignment-3-copyright-and-ethics

Can ensembles do anything today without jumping through hoops and bending over backwards? The answer is both yes and no. Ultimately, everyone needs to obey the rules in order to get by in the world, and copyright infringement is no exception. Should ensembles be able to tape themselves and distribute the tapes?

Making the tape itself is no problem. According to MENC, one copy may be made to be kept on file for the ensemble or school. However, if one wishes to make more copies, the Music Publisher’s Association states that it is “expressly prohibited to make copies of recordings of a copyrighted work.” This requires the permission of both the author and the publisher.

While this may seem like a lot of pain to go through, remember that the musicians depend on music sales for their livelihood. Some people, including many musicians, have vastly different views on this issue, especially downhillbattle.org , but the fact remains that copyright is the law, and we should follow it to the best of our ability.

Contemporary or traditional?

Today I’ll attempt to bash out an answer for the age-old (or not) question: Which is better for church, contemporary or traditional music?

Let’s take a look at…grammar, of all things. Specifically, pronouns. Everyone remember what those are? He, her, our, we….etc. Worship has always been about the community, right? We gather together in a house of worship to lift up our prayers as a community of believers. So logically, our community worship (songs) should be about us and we, right?

Most (not all) hymns use lots of plural pronouns (our, we, etc.). A good example is the classic “We Gather Together.”

We gather together to ask the Lord’s blessing
He chastens and hastens His will to make known….

We all do extol thee, thou leader triumphant
and pray that thou still our defender will be….

Sounds nice. Lots of community, and extolling God’s greatness. Link to the hymn lyrics

On the other hand, we have “King of Glory” by Third Day, which goes:

Who is this King of Glory that pursues me with his love
And haunts me with each hearing of His softly spoken words
My conscience, a reminder of forgiveness that I need
Who is this King of Glory who offers it to me

While it has a few good qualities (the Lord offering forgiveness, etc.), there are no plural pronouns, implying that God is offering forgiveness to me alone, to the exclusion of all others. Furthermore, the first two lines sound suspiciously like a secular pop song…just substitute “my boyfriend” or “that cutie” for “King of Glory” and you’ve got a pop song. Link to lyrics

Yes, He loves you, but songs shouldn’t make Him out to be like this.

We’ll have more fun later. See you!

General info

You’re probably wondering what this site is about.  You’ve come to just the right place/post.  Here you will find cool stuff about music, especially related to church and technology.  New hymns, sacred arrangements, notable instruments…it’s all here. 

What kind of music is appropriate for church?  Does it have to be only hymns, or should it be more modern arrangements?  Should it only involve the organ and voice, or guitar and drums?  What borders on disrespectful?

 But this isn’t just about religion.  You’ll find info about the latest gadgets which you may need (or not need) as related to music.  And perhaps some things that aren’t.  You may, for instance, learn about the ninja remote or the annoyance chip. 

 Stay tuned!