Music and You(r Health)

Covid-19 is 2020’s uninvited guest, and looks like it may be extending its stay for a little longer….ugh! Don’t you just hate rude guests? Get the hint, and GET OUT.

Until that fateful day, when this madness ends, we turn to things that bring us joy, one such thing usually being music. Music and Covid-19. An odd, unexpected pair, but a pair that can help cancel the bad with some good.

During our time at home, we have turned to art to keep us sane. Whether it is playing Bach while meeting that deadline for work, or Mooseblood while you’re folding laundry (looking at you, Andrew), music helps bring a sense of normalcy to our lives, and also provides us with some ACTUAL health benefits as well. (As I write this, I am listening to “The Harry James Songbook” – Ray Anthony, give it a listen, it’s oh so sweet!)

Hold up, don’t roll your eyes at the screen! It’s true. That isn’t some mumbo jumbo I’m making up. Music truthfully provides benefits to your mental health, cardiovascular functions, and even athletic performance. Although it doesn’t CURE anything per se, it is extremely beneficial. Therefore, I still recommend taking your vitamins, kids. Or don’t. I’m not your mom, or a doctor, so what do I know?

Getting back on track, music is everywhere and always has been. Whether you are musically inclined or not, you participate and often make music yourself. You sing along to a song, you hum, you snap, you clap your hands – sounds themselves count as music and help enhance your health and overall performance and we will find out why!

One of my favorite quotes describing music and the brain comes from a Harvard Health publishing. It states, “The human brain and nervous system are hard-wired to distinguish music from noise and to respond to rhythm and repetition, tones and tunes,” so whether you think you’re musically inclined or not, you are technically designed to be, at some degree, musical. So, we are all born with music in us, and I think that is absolutely fascinating.

Our brains are designed to perform specific musical functions that allow us to perceive different elements of music, such as pitch, rhythm, and lyrics. I could get in to some heavy science-y talk here, but I’d rather keep it simple. If interested in reading more on the specific parts of the brain and their relation to music, the link for the article is below!

 All human brains can perform these tasks. So, again, we are built to be somewhat musical. Musicians’ brains, however, are more finely attuned to these tasks. It is often said musicians are also great mathematicians. It has been proved in a few studies that music often enhances one’s mathematical performance. (Read about the “Mozart effect” in the link posted below). It’s not completely clear how EXACTLY music enhances mathematical performance, BUT it is speculated that music helps organize the firing of nerve cells in the cerebral cortex, the part of the brain responsible for higher functions. Music, more so certain types of music, warms up selected brain cells, helping to process information more efficiently. WHAT! That being said, it could help you be more productive and enjoy your work or chore more. 

Don’t get mad at me if you do not go from zero to hero in your math studies. It’s a speculation and one that affects certain people. If you can relate to this, you can understand how listening to music and math go hand in hand. I, for one, always sang a song to myself while doing my math homework back in school. It is something that helped me focus, and maybe made me better at math? I did well in the subject, so maybe there is some truth to this. Step aside, Einstein!

Music and emotion. A match made in heaven. Music allows musicians to express feelings and the listener to feel them. Music can also bring about different emotions in the listener, outside of the intended one. I’m sure it is second nature to pop on your favorite song when you feel good, or even listen to some music when you’re stressed to help alleviate some of the anxiousness or uneasiness you are feeling. I am 100% guilty of this and always recommend popping on some tunes when your emotions get the best of you. A study was done with a group of people getting surgery. Select people listened to music before, during, and after their operations; the other group went through surgery as normal, but without music. It was reported that those who listened to music were calmer, resulting in a lower blood pressure result and a less strenuous experience. It is important to consider that the tempo is important for your mood: slow, classical music can help you relax, while faster, upbeat rock tempos can cause your body to become aroused and excited (Keep it PG, people). Music is such a convenient and accessible tool to help us accomplish so many things! It is amazing.

As mentioned, music can lift one’s mood or enhance it. It just depends on preference and tempo. Music with faster tempos has been proven to lift the moods of people experiencing depressive illnesses. It was found that music can also help reduce chronic pain and improve the quality of sleep. It might not replace good ol’ Prozac, but it can definitely improve symptoms and overall quality of life. (Ask me, I know!) In addition, music in general can open the door to encourage those with more severe mental disabilities to analyze lyrics, engage in music improvisations and songwriting, and even stabilize mood and behavior, all by simply listening to a song.  

It is no question that music can aide in the overall health and recovery of people struggling with mental or some physical ailments.  There are plenty of medical journals and studies on the topic to look into, I mentioned a few, but that does not even make a dent in the discoveries.

It is important to keep the music alive, especially during these trying times. The Michigan Phil is dedicated to bringing music to you, our dedicated friends, to help lift spirits and bring some happiness. With the rise in depression and anxiety during the pandemic, it seems we need our spirits lifted more than ever. We will get through this and are determined to keep the music going, whether in person or through live-stream videos, for you! After all, we are all in this together.

Sources:

https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/music-and-health

https://www.nami.org/Blogs/NAMI-Blog/December-2016/The-Impact-of-Music-Therapy-on-Mental-Health#:~:text=Research%20shows%20the%20benefits%20of,for%20anxiety%20or%20for%20dysregulation.

Phil Your Life With Music

Summer is here! But, this summer, as we know, is unlike any other before. Due to the current circumstances, despite businesses starting to open back up, we are forced to find more activities without leaving our homes. We have survived months of keeping ourselves busy, but our current reality revolves around being Covid compliant and social distancing; which includes finding activities to keep us busy at home, whether with your family or by yourself.

We are lucky now that the weather is warmer, so we are able to spend more time outside having cookouts, going on walks, or doing yard work. Although these activities are fun (maybe?) by themselves, adding music or musical elements always brings a greater joy and satisfaction to the day and your life overall (At least I think, anyway).

Music is all around us and a huge part of our lives already, whether we realize it or not. I have compiled a list of musical things and activities you can do, be apart of, or be more aware of; at home, on the go, or outside, these activities will help you have a little fun, become more conscious of your surroundings, and maybe learn a thing, or two, along the way!

1.)    Listen to the music that’s around you. As cheesy as it sounds, there is music everywhere. I’m not talking about that song in the background while you do your housework or the pop song that plays in the grocery store while you’re feeling tomatoes. I’m talking about the sounds of nature: birds chirping, the breeze in the trees, waves crashing along the sand, bees buzzing around you, rain on a rooftop, thunder crashing. These are not your typical “songs” we listen to or think about when we think music, but they are a compilation of sounds, rhythms, and feature their own tempos and dynamics. So, wouldn’t that, by default, make these sounds, a song? One composer by the name of John Cage backed this way of thinking, and frankly, I think it makes for a more interesting, more fulfilling, and a more positive life. Hearing and viewing everything as music brings a certain beauty and happiness to everyday. John Cage regarded not only sounds of nature, but other sonic randomness as music, which may seem unorthodox, but it encouraged his audience to imagine sound phenomena beyond that of a typical composer, using elements sound as pots and pans clanging together, car horns, or even dripping water into something grander than it is. It can be bizarre, but I think the idea is for the audience to create their own mental imagery with the sounds. It truly is something special.
This way of thinking has inspired me to create music out of everyday items. My favorite is using a car’s turn signal. Listen to the constant steady beat it provides. Huh, almost like a metronome…? Music is around you! Listen and get creating!

Link: John Cage's Water Walk

2.)    Sing! Sing in the car, in the shower (the best place to sing to, to be honest), or around the house. This is the most obvious musical thing someone can do. It is an instant mood boost and can make any activity more fun. Think of your favorite song and rock on, Rockstar! The world is your stage!!!!! (This is for singers and non- alike. Do not be afraid, Simon Cowell is not around to judge you!)

3.)    Pick up THAT instrument: Yes, I’m calling you out. You know that instrument that has been sitting over in the corner collecting dust? Or the one you shoved under your bed? Well, pull that bad boy out and get crackin’! There are thousands of how-to videos online to help you learn and get tips from experienced musicians who are polite enough to help a beginner, or someone looking for a little extra guidance for their next musical steps. Not to mention, there are millions upon millions of free sheet music downloads for almost every instrument to help the bored musicians out there! You will thank me one day, I promise (and then you can owe me 😊)

4.)    Buy a new instrument: This one is for those who have yet to learn an instrument or the musicians looking to expand their repertoire. No time like the present to buy that instrument you’ve always been dreaming and thinking about. Half the battle is getting the instrument in hand and when you do, as mentioned above, there are thousands of videos online to help you learn your new instrument and your favorite songs. I hope this is the push you need!

5.)    Learn theory/sight-singing/ear-training: Do you need to learn these skills to learn an instrument? No, not necessarily. Take it from me. I learned to play the clarinet at 10, but did not understand or know what music theory was or is until I was 18, and even then it took me another two years to completely understand the mechanics of it, and LET ME TELL YOU, the world makes a lot more sense when you have that music theory foundation. This step is not as scary as it seems. Whether you are an absolute beginner or looking for a refresher, it can never hurt you. Again, there are so many videos and apps that can help. A piece of advice, most of my apps related toward these topics, were directed for kids. Sometimes you need something spelled out for you a little and the “games” help make the learning process less painful. They simplify lessons. A list of my favorite apps can be found here:

      Link: Music Theory Apps for Kids

If you’re looking for someone to explain things to you, Michael New absolutely saved my life and music career. Without some of his videos I probably would have quit music school. They are lifesaving and life-changing videos!

      Link: Michael New's YouTube Channel

6.)    Learn Solfege symbols: You know, the Do-Re-Mi-Fa-So-La-Ti-Do? Yes, they have a funky, cool name: solfege symbols, and yes, they do serve a musical purpose. Believe it or not, Maria von Trapp was not just singing gibberish to take the kids around town in their play clothes. Nay nay, these symbols serve a purpose: they are a note value, a certain pitch. They aid in sight-singing and they also, come with symbols. Enjoy the guides and videos below:

Link: Solfege PDF

Link: How To: Solfege Hand Signs

Enjoy this Sound of Music clip, just because: 

Link: Do-Re-Mi // Sound of Music

When you know the notes to sing, you can sing most anything!

7.)    Dance Party! Here’s an easy one for when you’re done with your heavy music learning. Have a dance party. Dance your little heart out to all your favorite music. Why? Because it is fun and you’ll burn some calories. You are welcome. Get to it, Dancing Queen!

8.)    Discover New Music: one of my favorites things to do is to take time to discover new music. You know that list of musicians you have or that one song by that one artist you like? Here is the perfect opportunity to look into a new genre or look up more songs by that artist you like. Maybe this is a good rainy-day project, but nonetheless whenever you decide to do it, you will always discover something you like. Pro-tip: ask as many people as you wish to give you a list of 3-5 songs they LOVE. Not only will this help you discover new music, it also tells you a little more about the people you asked. Music SPEAKS.

9.)    Identify Parts of Song: Okay this one is a STRETCH and probably will be another rainy day project. OR if you’re like me and enjoy doing weird music things, and coloring, boy do I have something for you. I learned this activity in one of my classes. It is supposed to teach ear-training and instrument identification. Have a notebook, color pencils, and a sheet of plain white paper handy, and let’s do some song identification!!!!

Here are the steps:

1.)    Pick a song. Any song you like, and listen to it once all the way through.

2.)    Think about the song. What did you hear? What was the feeling of the song? (Was it happy, sad?) What instruments did you hear? How many singers did it have? When was the music loud, when was it soft?  Pay attention to anything you think is significant to the song.

3.)    Match these attributes to colors. Use different colors to express different emotions, instruments, or elements of this song. This could mean using yellow to symbol happy or blue for sad. Or yellow for guitar and blue for trumpet. You decide!

4.)    Draw varying lines to symbolize volumes or dynamics, tempos, or different rhythmic patterns in a song.

                        However you want to do it is up to you! Honestly, this activity helped me a lot to pay attention to different elements and details of a song. So, I did learn something, but I also got to color (which is a stress-reliever). Find your zen, my friend!

                For reference:
                

           

10.) Live-stream your favorite band or orchestra: Because most live performances are being cancelled, many musicians and artists are putting out online content for their fans to enjoy! The Michigan Phil, being the progressive orchestra they are, jumped on the band wagon to offer enjoyable content for all to listen to at home. Some places are starting to offer live music, but it will be a while before normal concerts are held as they once were. So, therefore, The Michigan Phil presents “Phil the Air With Music,” a concert series happening every Friday at various locations. See flyer for more details.

I hope you have enjoyed this list of musical activities to get you going at home. I hope this list has inspired you in some way. Feel free to share will us and Phil Your Life With Music!

References: 

https://www.britannica.com/biography/John-Cage

Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon....the "Othering" of Minority Composers

Program Notes Writer’s Opinion:
Six Degrees of Separation Kevin Bacon and the "Othering" of Minority Composers

The world of classical music is dominated by a small number of “greats” whose music and legacies  

Fanny Mendelssohn

seem to penetrate every corner of history. For most composers, their pedagogical lineage often turns into something resembling the parlor game “Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon,” where composers whose works are performed less frequently are often referred to through their relationship to a major composer. Antonio Salieri was “Mozart’s rival.” Carl Czerny was “Beethoven’s student.” These nicknames can help us situate less popular composers in our music history timeline.

More often than not, however, minority composers frequently undergo a Kevin Bacon-ing before their music can be considered worthwhile. Fanny Mendelssohn Hensel (1805-1847), for example, was taught by a student of J. S. Bach and was a prolific composer in her own right.   Despite this, yet she is primarily known as “Felix Mendelssohn’s sister.” Likewise, Clara Wieck Schumann (1819-1896) is regarded as one of the most important pianists of the nineteenth century, yet her legacy has been overshadowed by her husband, Robert Schumann (1810-1856). Her legacy thus persists as “Schumann’s wife” for many classical music enthusiasts.  

Their music received far fewer performances and was taken much less seriously because of their gender. During the nineteenth century—and certainly long before and after—the mere image of a

Clara Schumann

woman performing or publishing was considered far too salacious to be considered as a possibility. Prejudiced ideas about inferiority also have had a similar impact on the musical careers of black and indigenous people, and people of color.

It was certainly not just women who experienced, and continue to experience, this othering that strips them of their independence.  Samuel Coleridge-Taylor is perhaps the most prominent example of a black composer whose name is obscured by the Kevin Bacon-ing of music history. Coleridge-Taylor, for example, was born to a white British woman and a Creole man from Sierra Leone. During his three tours of the United States during the early 1900s, he was given the nickname of the “African Mahler” or “Black Mahler” by white American musicians. Although this certainly was intended as a compliment—and more importantly as a way to skirt around notions of racial inferiority in the post-Civil War United States—it is a nickname that seems a bit -off to many of today’s musicologists and musicians.  

Samuel Coleridge-Taylor

Referring to these composers by their personal or musical connection to the “greats” provided an opportunity for their works to be legitimized in a world where they might otherwise be ignored. By referring to Coleridge-Taylor as the “Black Mahler,” musicians and critics in the twentieth century were able construe him as someone worthy of the name “Mahler.” At the same time, these nicknames minimize a composer’s contribution to the world of classical music.

In the context of our society’s present-day understanding of race and gender, we should allow them to be their own individuals whose compositions and lives should be remembered without playing the game of “Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon.” Yes, we should celebrate their differences. It is absolutely remarkable that Coleridge-Taylor achieved such success as a half-black man during a time when many of similar backgrounds struggled to gain access to music lessons. However, we also need to recognize that he was a composer in their own right, whose music does not necessarily need to be validated via Mahler.

                     Perhaps the only appropriate time to describe someone as the “Black Mahler” in today’s
social and political climate is when I talk about my dog, Gustav Mahler-Holst-Nyquist-Wells, as the “Black and White Gustav.”

BLACK HISTORY MONTH, A CELEBRATION

BLACK HISTORY MONTH, A CELEBRATION

of

5 COMPOSERS, 5 STORIES, 5 CONTRIBUTIONS TO MUSIC

February is Black History Month. Although there is a dedicated month for celebration and appreciation, I’m sure this is not the only month you appreciate and celebrate the contributions of people of color.  The Michigan Philharmonic celebrates diversity and regularly programs music by composers of many different backgrounds.

It is hard to believe that there was a time of intense separation. Prior to that, different races held different levels of status in society. Black History Month is a time to recognize those throughout history who made and continue to make an impact in our world. There are SO many to name and thank for their contributions.

Here, we are going to focus on five African-American composers and musicians who paved the way for not only those of their own skin color, but inspired people of all backgrounds, for generations, showcasing their talents in less accepting times.

**Side note: the starred composers and their compositions have appeared on aa Michigan Philharmonic program

Let’s begin:

1.)    Joseph Bologne**

Joseph Bologne (pronounced *Bol-lawn-yay), or as we so lovingly call him, Joey Baloney,  :)  was dubbed “le Mozart noir,” or the Black Mozart, having reminded people of the talent and drive of the then-famous Mozart. He is remembered as the first black composer, having his work performed by orchestras around the world, including us, the Michigan Philharmonic. Mr. Bologne was born to a wealthy plantation owner and wrote many a compositions, some of which became very popular during his life. It has been said that Mozart envied him so much, it was theorized that the villainous black character, Monostatos, from Mozart’s the The Magic Flute was created after Bologne..can someone say petty??

2.)    Florence Price**

Florence Price was the first black woman to have her music performed by a major symphony orchestra (!!). One of her pieces was performed by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in 1933 and was highly accepted among citizens and respected just the same. A Chicago Daily News music critic described her piece and performance: 

           “a faultless work…[that] speaks its own message with           restraint and yet with passion…worthy of a place in the         regular symphonic repertoire.”

Imgine - 1933 - You go, girl!

3.)    Scott Joplin

Scott Joplin! You know Scott Joplin…maybe not by name, but you definitely know him by one or two of his songs. One of his most popular is “The Entertainer.” (click to listen). Mr. Joplin was dubbed the “King of Ragtime,” and rightfully so. He is seen as one of the most influential composers at the turn of the 20^th century! * Please note, it does not say, most influential black composer – just composer. Joplin influenced composers of ALL races and backgrounds, especially after introducing his complex bass patterns and sporadic syncopation! His music, specifically “The Entertainer,” 

      is still extremely popular today.

4.)    William Grant Still **

William Grant Still – another familiar name, was dubbed “The Dean” of African American composers. As an African American composer, this gentleman had a lot of music firsts:

-first black composer to conduct a major American Symphony orchestra

-first black composer to have an opera produced by a major opera company, the New York City Opera Company

-first black composer to have a symphony performed by a leading orchestra (his “First Symphony”)

-first black composer to have an opera performed on national TV.

I only listed four things, but to be the first black composer to accomplish such feats is HUGE. This opened so many doors for future black composers, musicians, actors, EVERYTHING. What AWESOME accomplishments.

When he wasn’t busy, ya know, writing successful operas and symphonies, and being on TV, he found some extra free time to moonlight as an oboist, conductor, as well as a jazz arranger. What a guy!

5.)    Samuel Coleridge-Taylor**
You probably recognize his name from some of our marketing for our upcoming concert. Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, (not to be confused with Samuel Taylor Coleridge, the Romantic poet), was dubbed the “Black Mahler” by white musicians in New York. He lived a short life (1875-1912), but fought against racial prejudice throughout that time. Coleridge-Taylor skillfully married African folk music with classical music, creating pieces and patterns never heard before!

One of his pieces Danse Nègre from the African Suite, Op. 35, can be heard at the upcoming MAHLER MADNESS (details below).

The concert will also feature music of composer Jessica Hunt, where we explore a child’s view of heaven. Finishing up the show will be Gustav Mahler’s “Symphony No. 4 in G Major,” which is based on his own song “The Heavenly Life.” (We see what did here now, Nan, tying together composers and their pieces for a show….clever, clever!)

Only 5 black composers were mentioned here, but there are so many fantastic black composers, musicians, conductors, entertainers, and every other profession under the sun. We here at the Michigan Philharmonic honor and pay tribute to these creative individuals throughout the month of February and always. Thank you to the black composers and entertainers who opened the door to so many opportunities for generations to come.

We hope you learned something and expanded your musical horizons!

Until next time, Phil Fans!

MAHLER MADNESS

 Sunday, March 15, 2020

 2 PM

 First United Methodist Church, Plymouth

TICKETS STILL AVAILABLE!

Facts courtesy of: 

https://www.classicfm.com/discover-music/black-composers-who-made-classical-music-history/

*We do not own any of the pictures, credit has been given to the respective owners

LET IT BE....BEATLES: THEIR SONGS AND THEIR STORIES

You know them, you love them, but DO YOU WANT TO KNOW A SECRET? Just kidding, these facts are no secret, but they may be some you’ve never known about this sensational group. With the upcoming concert, Let it Be! Beatles, it was only appropriate to talk about the concert and the songs that will be heard!

For this one, I went a little crazy, studying every song and researching specific facts and stories about them!  Enjoy.

The Michigan Philharmonic will be performing Let it Be! Beatles which is a concert full of the Fab Four’s greatest hits, some compiled into six different arrangements, two songs which will be played individually, all being performed to create ONE night of FAB FUN!

Arrangement #1: (Bob Lowden)

Remembering the Beatles

[Eleanor Rigby; Yesterday; A Hard Day’s Night; Fool on the Hill; Something; Please Please Me]

“Eleanor Rigby”

Album: Revolver

Written by: McCartney

About: A lonely spinster and the solitary priest who buries her. It was the group’s first song written in the first person AND their first on the subject of a named individual. When originally pitched to the band and Liverpool mate Pete Shotten, McCartney originally used the names Daisy Hawkins and Father McCartney in the songs (whhhhattt!). Shotton suggested McKenzie after picking it out of a phonebook (a what? Holy Retro!) After that, the whole band added a little something to the song. Starr suggested the Father was “Darning his socks,” and Harrison came up with the infamous “look at all the lonely people.” McCartney chose Eleanor Rigby, for Beatles’ Help! Costar Eleanor Bron and a store in Bristol (neat!). It peaked at #1 on September 24, 1966!

“Yesterday”

Album: Help!

Written By: McCartney

About: Here’s how the story goes; McCartney woke up one morning with the song’s music and lyrics fully formed. He thought he may have subconsciously stole the song from someone else, and took time to perform it for numerous people, using the phrase “Scrambled Eggs” as a placeholder until he arrived at “Yesterday.” This song was a pivotal work for the group, with the lyrics being something that most adults could embrace, “signaling a depth of introspection and a loss of innocence.” (DEEP). It peaked at #1 on October 9, 1965!

Paul 2, rest of Beatles 0

“A Hard Day’s Night”

Album: A Hard Day’s Night

Written By: Lennon & McCartney

About: On the evening of April 13, 1964, Lennon wrote “A Hard Day’s Night,” the same day that director Dick Lester decided to name the Beatles’ first film that. Lennon wrote a majority of the songs for this album as well as the follow-up, Beatles for Sale. (Go John!). McCartney recalls Lennon offering to write the song, and coming back to the studio the following day with the completed song. The lyrics were written on the back of child’s birthday card – which is now in the British Museum in London! It peaked at #1 on August 1, 1964!

“Fool on the Hill”

Album: Magical Mystery Tour

Written By: McCartney

About: Who’s the fool? Apparently the fool is the Maharishi (Indian guru), whose detractors dismissed him for his high-pitched laugh and constant smile. McCartney wrote the song while visiting his father. The arrangement may be simple, but the piece contained many overdubs. Engineer Ken Scott said it was NOT fun to get two tape machines to line up, the original track and the flute track were different speeds and HARD to line up! A GIANT round of applause for KEN!

“Something”

 Album: Abbey Road

Written By: Harrison

About: One of Harrison’s best songs, which is odd since Harrison uncharacteristically wrote it on the piano! The opening line comes from the James Taylor song “Something in the Way She Moves.” “Something” is said to be the second most covered Beatles’ song, after “Yesterday.” It peaked at #1 on November 29, 1969!

“Please Please Me”

Album: Please Please Me

Written By: Lennon & McCartney

About: The Beatles’ second single, but it almost was not that way. Their manager wanted the group to record a teen bop written by a professional songwriter, but John and Paul offered this song instead. To compromise, their manager took the song, but advised them to speed it up to its known speed – and they did. It peaked at #1 on March 14, 1964!

Arrangement #2: (Henry Mancini)

Portrait of the Beatles

[All My Loving; And I Love Her; A Hard Day’s Night; Michelle; Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown); Yesterday]

“All My Loving”

Album: With the Beatles

Written By: Lennon & McCartney

About: In May 1963, The Beatles were on tour with Roy Orbison and McCartney penned the lyrics to this tune while en route to the next gig – was the first song he ever wrote the words first! (Fun fact!). Upon arriving at the next venue, Paul quickly found a piano backstage and picked out chords for it. He originally wanted the song to have a country-western flare, although it is more of a rock song, Harrison’s guitar solo gives it the twang McCartney originally envisioned.

“And I Love Her”

 

If I Fell / And I Love Her single artwork

Album: A Hard Day’s Night

Written By: McCartney & Lennon

Album: McCartney was in love with actress Jane Asher in 1964 and soon moved in with her and her parents, where this song was written. McCartney was impressed with his own work and liked that he only mentions the title once throughout the song. The Beatles attempted to use their electric guitars, but opted for a gentler acoustic sound (good choice, fellas). It was criticized for being to repetitious, so they added a key change!! (God bless the F sharp minor to G minor, we got a song!)

“A Hard Day’s Night”

See above.

“Michelle”

 

Album: Rubber Soul

Written By: McCartney

About: This tune was inspired by music of the fifties and originally started as a joke, as McCartney saw some guy singing a French song at a party he attended. McCartney performed it as a party piece with nonsensical French lyrics, until Lennon knocked some sense into him and made it a proper tune (Thank you John!). With the help of Jan Vaughan, a friend’s wife, who was a French teacher, he was able to develop proper French lyrics for the song. The melody and bass are played simultaneously and was inspired by Chet Atkins’ style of finger-picking. Lennon suggested repeating the “I love you” in the refrain, imitating Nina Simone’s version of “I Put a Spell on You.”

“Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown)”

Album: Rubber Soul

Written By: Lennon

About: Lennon wrote the song while vacationing with manager George Martin and their wives in the Swiss Alps. Martin broke his foot, causing the group to spend most of the trip indoors. Lennon used the time to write songs for Rubber Soul, this being one....and it was about one of Lennon’s extramarital affairs.

“Yesterday”

See above.

Arrangement #3: (Jack Bullock)

The Beatles Remembered

[Do You Want To Know A Secret?; From Me To You; I Saw Her Standing There; She Loves You]

“Do You Want To Know A Secret?”

Album: Please Please Me

Written By: Lennon & McCartney

About: Very lightweight, and perfect for the youngest Beatle, George Harrison to sing, as it suited his innocent demeanor. Lennon was the primary composer and wrote the tune Fall 1962, deriving the opening lines of the song from “I’m Wishing,” a song featured in Walt Disney’s 1937 Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. (His mama used to sing it to him when he was younger….aw!)

“From Me To You”

 

Single Cover Art, Italy

*Was featured as a single, not included on a Beatles’ album

Written By: Lennon & McCartney

About: Third single written and first not to be included on an album. It was also the first to top all of the U.K. charts and was the start of Beatlemania! It was written on February 28, 1963 while on tour with Helen Shapiro.

“I Saw Her Standing There”

Album: Please Please Me

Written By: Lennon & McCartney

About: Songwriting began in fall 1962 when McCartney started working out chords on an acoustic guitar. It was originally called “Seventeen,” and speculated to have been written for McCartney’s then-girlfriend Celia Mortimer, who was 17 at the time. The lyrics were completely finished a month later by Lennon and McCartney, changing the original line “she was just 17, never a beauty queen,” to the more suggestive “you to know what I mean,” which McCartney loved because we don’t know what he means (Silly guy). Another fun fact: the “one-two-three-four” count-in at the beginning of the song was added on the NINTH take of the song, to make it seem like it was recorded live. (ok sneaky petes)

“She Loves You”

*Was featured as a single, not included on a Beatles’ album

Written By: Lennon & McCartney

About: This song, was, and remains, the best-selling single in the U.K. It was written Summer ’63 right before a gig. McCartney had the idea to write it as an advice piece, rather than a traditional love song. The song was finished the following day. McCartney played it for his dad who said, “Couldn’t you sing, ‘She loves you. Yes! Yes! Yes!’?” (Should dad be getting some of these royalties???) Like most songs, to appeal to a wider audience and meet demand, it was recorded in German: “Sie Liebt Dich.”

Arrangement #4: (Calvin Custer)

The Best of the Beatles

[Got to Get You Into My Life; When I’m Sixty-Four; Michelle; Get Back]

“Got to Get You Into My Life”

 

Got To Get You Into My Life / Helter Skelter
album cover art

Album: Revolver

Written By: McCartney

About: McCartney was unsure how to go about this song – was not sure what he wanted the overall feel to be. At first he thought he would give it a more Motown flare, having the instruments loud with prominent harmonized vocals. Later on, McCartney wanted to add a brass section. INTERESTING: to record the brass section, Geoff Emerick, engineer, placed mics in the bells of the instrument and compressed the sound through the Fairchild limiter, giving them more of a punch and clarity, which was rarely heard on ANY recording up until this diddy.

Fairchild Limiter

“When I’m Sixty-Four”

Album: Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band

Written By: McCartney

About: This was one of McCartney’s first songs he had ever written…..and he wrote it when he was, wait for it, 16. It was never really part of the early Beatles’ repertoire, but they would play it every now and again to kill some time. It’s speculated Young McCartney wrote it about his own father, James, who at the time was 64, written in a jazzier style, which would have been inspired by the music he listened to as a child and the music his musician father....being a jazz musician.

“Michelle”

See above.

“Get Back”

Album: Let It Be

Written By: McCartney

About: Written during a loose jam session, with the “get back to where you once belonged” line being inspired by Harrison’s song “Sour Milk Sea,” written for Jackie Lomax (where Paul played Bass). It was written as a parody to some racist attitudes held by some in the UK, however, the final version of the song centers around Jo Jo and Loretta Martin, both in the middle of transitions. Jo Jo is searching for a home and Loretta is questioning her gender identity.

Roger Holmes, Arrangement #5:

“Twist and Shout”

Album: Please Please Me

Written By: Phil Medley, Burt Berns, & Bert Russell

About: Written in 1961 under the name “Shake It Up Baby.” It was recorded by the Isley Brothers in 1962 under the name “Shout.” To capitalize on the success, Berns retitled the track to “Twist and Shout,” taking advantage of the popular dance craze the Twist. It peaked at #2 on April 4, 1964.

Arrangement #6: (Ted Ricketts)

Hello, Goodbye (Songs of the Beatles in Concert)

[Can’t Buy Me Love; Hello, Goodbye; Penny Lane; Ticket to Ride]

“Can’t Buy Me Love”

 

You Can't Do That / Can't Buy Me Love
cover art

Album: Please Please Me

Written By: McCartney

About: Written at the height of Beatlemania, this song demonstrated how fast the Beatles worked. McCartney wrote the song in January 1964 while touring with the band in Paris, where they had a 19-day residency. At the end of January, they recorded the song in under an hour, in just FOUR takes! It peaked at #1 on April 4, 1964.

A number one and number two on the SAME DAY. Madness! No MANIA, Beatlemania!

“Hello, Goodbye”

 

Hello Goodbye / I Am The Walrus
cover art

Album: Magical Mystery Tour

Written By: McCartney

About: It’s about duality, with a message to be more positive. Side note: Lennon did not like the song….AT ALL. That or he was just a little upset this song was chosen over his song “I am the Walrus,” which appeared on the album’s B-side (look up how an album works, kids). This song peaked at #1 on December 30, 1967!

“Penny Lane”

 

Strawberry Fields Forever / Penny Lane
cover art

Album: Magical Mystery Tour

Written By: Lennon & McCartney

About: It was a short bus ride around Liverpool that provided the inspiration for this song. The lyrics were based on McCartney and Lennon’s childhood memories. The song was written and recorded, but something was missing. The missing piece to the Penny Lane puzzle was discovered upon Paul watching a performance of Bach’s Brandenburg Concert No. 2 in F Major, which featured David Mason on piccolo trumpet, prompting McCartney to add in the trumpet part. Fun Fact: David Mason was hired to perform the trumpet flourishes and solo on this song! This song peaked at #1 on March 18, 1967! (*Click Here to listen to David Mason talk about his experience with the Beatles).

“Ticket to Ride”

 

Ticket To Ride / Yes It Is
cover art

Album: Help!

Written By: Lennon & McCartney

About: This tune was a sign of the time, symbolizing the emerging youth culture, with sexually confident women being a recurring theme within the Beatles’ music in 1965. Here, the tune is about a women who can’t be tied down. Interestingly, this song featured one of the heaviest rhythms heard in rock and roll up to that time, not to mention the pretty innovative fade-out. McCartney said they “almost invented the idea…it was quite radical at the time.”

Arrangement #7: (Bruce Healey)

Love is All You Need (A Tribute to the Beatles)

[All My Loving; All You Need is Love; Blackbird; Can’t Buy Me Love; Come Together; Day Tripper; Here Comes the Sun; If I Fell; Lady Madonna; Let It Be; Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da; Something; Yesterday]

“All My Loving”

See above.

“All You Need is Love”

 

All You Need Is Love / Baby, You're a Rich Man
cover art

Album: Magical Mystery Tour

Written By: Lennon

About: The song was commissioned by Britain and required the Beatles to write a song to represent Britain for Our World, which was the first live global television link with artists from 19 nations representing their countries. Lennon responded with a message he thought would be universally understood and appreciated. The original song was recorded with an orchestra and background singers. Care to guess who was one of the background singers? (Answer: Mick Jagger). It peaked at #1 on August 19, 1967!

“Blackbird”

Album: The Beatles (The White Album)

Written By: McCartney

About: This song was inspired musically by Bach’s Bourée in E Minor, and was written as a tribute to the U.S. civil rights movement. The blackbird of the title is meant to represent a black woman, a song that was written from him to her, who was experiencing the problems in the states.

“Can’t Buy Me Love”

See above.

“Come Together”

 

Something / Come Together
cover art

Album: Abbey Road

Written: Lennon

About: This song was written in 1969 for the campaign of psychologist and pro-psychedelics activist Timothy Leary, who was running for governor of California at the time. Leary’s slogan was “Come together, join the party,” from which Lennon derived the title and theme. Leary was then imprisoned on a pot charge, so Lennon gave the song to the Beatles.

“Day Tripper”

We Can Work It Out / Day Tripper
cover art

*Was featured as a single, not included on a Beatles’ album

Written By: Lennon & McCartney

About: It was October 1965, and the Beatles were just about to release their album Rubber Soul, when they were told they needed to come up with a single to accompany the album release (what..). Lennon and McCartney quickly came up with this tune, reworking a blues number Lennon was working on earlier that month. The song is in reference who have a “casual interest in drugs,” hence Day Tripper. The song peaked at #1 January 22, 1965, but only for a short while before Simon and Garfunkel’s “The Sound of Silence” took its place.

“Here Comes the Sun”

Album: Abbey Road

Written By: Harrison

About: Harrison wrote the song while relaxing at Eric Clapton’s garden (as one does). He took the day off from the Beatles to relax. While walking through the garden, accompanied by one of Clapton’s acoustic guitars, Harrison wrote “Here Comes the Sun.”

“If I Fell”

 

And I Love Her / If I Fell
cover art, Italy

Album: A Hard Day’s Night

Written By: Lennon & McCartney

About: Lennon wrote the song with the assistance of McCartney, making it one of the few ballads Lennon would ever write for the Beatles (seeing as he liked writing those rockers quite a bit more). This song is interesting, as it contains a preamble—or intro verse that is not repeated anywhere else in the song. In fact, it does not even sound like the rest of the song—pretty neat. In classic Lennon style, he wrote this song on the back of a Valentine’s card. (someone keep this man away from Hallmark). This tune also went #1 shortly after being released in the UK. (of course it did)

“Lady Madonna”

 

Lady Madonna single cover art

*Was featured as a single, not included on a Beatles’ album

Written By: McCartney

About: McCartney found inspiration from a boogie-woogie tune by Humphrey Lyttleton called “Bad Penny Blues,” and drew this vocal styling from Fats Domino. The concept of the song is taking the Virgin mother and applying that concept to the hardships faced by women raising a family and making ends meet.  Here’s something interesting: unlike all the other singles released, “Lady Madonna” was the first to not accompany an album release….how ‘bout that! Oh, and this one also peaked at #1 on the charts…how ‘bout that x2!

“Let It Be”

Album: Let It Be

Written By: McCartney

About: This song was written during the difficult White Album sessions. The “Mother Mary” mentioned in the song is often speculated as the holy mother, but is in fact a reference to McCartney's own mother, Mary, who died when he was only 14. The opening lyrics heard in this song refer to a dream in which she appears to him. On April 11, 1970, this song peaked at the #1 spot.

“Ob-La-Di, Ob La-Da”

 

Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da
cover art, Italy

Album: The Beatles (The White Album)

Written By: McCartney

About: The phrase “ob la di, ob la da” is a Nigerian phrase that means “life goes on.” It was often said by McCartney’s Nigerian friend, Jimmy Scott, who was a conga player from the London club scene. McCartney worked hard at trying to make this song the Beatles’ next single, but it was not turning out the way he wanted. After SEVERAL grueling rehearsals, the band ended up with three different versions. McCartney settled for the second, which appears on this album.

“Something”

See above.

“Yesterday”

See above.

Arrangement #8: (Bill Holcombe)

“Hey Jude”

 

Hey Jude / Revolution
cover art, Italy & Yugoslavia

*Was featured as a single, not included on a Beatles’ album

Written By: McCartney

About: In 1968, Lennon was going through a divorce with his first wife Cynthia, and spending a lot more time with his new girlfriend, Yoko Ono. The divorce was understandably hard on Lennon’s five-year-old son Julian. McCartney was close to Julian and spent time each week with him. One day while driving, McCartney came up with the line “Hey Jules, don’t take it bad,” later changing the name to Jude. The rest is history. This song peaked at #1 on September 28, 1968!

Welp, you've reached the end. I hope you enjoyed this piece and have gained a deeper appreciation for the Beatles and SOME their songs, I know I have. 

Let It Be - Beatles

SOLD OUT

Saturday, February 15, 2020

7:30 PM

The Village Theatre

Canton, Michigan

Facts courtesy of

Scapelliti, C. The Beatles: The Story Behind Every Album & Song. Harris Publications, Inc. New York. 2015.

https://www.billboard.com/music/the-beatles/chart-history/HSI/song/517470