07-23-2007, 07:31 AM
I saw this article in the New Haven Register last night and was fascinated by the whole concept of turning the Greatful Dead music into classical music.Classical composer Lee Johnson's composisition 'Dead Symphony No 6" is based on the music of the Greatful Dead and it has been released on CD by the Russian National Orchestra.The article goes on to say The Greatful Dead emboddied such a huge swath of the late 20th century....that they are a wonderful place from which to have a symphony in which you can explore and come out with a response to American culture,says Johnson.Johnson believes the American composers have to delve into pop culture if they are going to truly reflect the world around them.Johnson said, I have profound admiration for what the Greatful Dead did,how long they did it and the fact it was all about making music.He said of the group they defied many popular music's conventions,shunning elaborate light shows,costumes and other special effects.They didn't play games,they played music,said Johnson.So I went and listened and was blown away by the music.If anyone would like to hear portions of the symphony I have listed the site below,you will be amazed.Let us know what you think !
www.deadsymphony.com
www.deadsymphony.com
