So, what did you think about the Oscars? - Page 4

[Nelybel]

Guess this is a bit OT but here goes.

Dragonfly and anyone else curious....
The Sacred Harp Singers were asked to sing a song at the Oscars because it was thought that so many of the songs were mellow/downers it would be good to have some more up-beat variety. Then, for time reasons, the song was cut. They were going to sing 'Liberty' since it was fairly short and they thought the words were appropriate. SH Singers came from all over the country to participate...and then only did the back-up thing. Still, I've heard they all had a wonderful time and got to sing Shape Note stuff with Sting and some other big-name singers at some other related event. Thats what I've heard via a mailing list I'm on.

I was really looking forward to hearing Shape Note singing on stage at the Oscars and I taped the show just for that. Fortunately, my dh was home watching while I was out and warned me that it didn't happen. That way I was prepared to be disappointed.

J

[DaryLLL]

I wondered why they brought out several dozen choral singers, most carrying harps, and then they only sang for about 3 mins ( their voices completely drowned out by the soloists), then they walked off stage and didn't sing or play any more.

[Nelybel]

The story I got was that they (the sacred harp singers) although disappointed that they wouldn't be able to share their music in an authentic way, decided to make the best of it...and they carried their Sacred Harp books to show their love of Sacred Harp Music. Sacred Harp singing is unique...its not really at all like singing in a choir (other than it is a group of people singing). Everyone participates, you face one another in a square, its not really meant for audiences, the sound is loud and strong and energetic (at least what I've heard and experienced)and it is an amazingly powerful sound and experience. Very organic somehow. The song was a patriotic one...it would have been quite something to hear something so 'non-hollywood' in that context. And in case some of you haven't seen the movie (as I haven't) there is some Sacred Harp singing on it. Thats why the use of Sacred Harp singers for the songs nominated from that movie.

Regarding how you could hardly hear them...I was disappointed...but not really surprised. I was the choir director of a choir that sang on the Emmys following Sep 11. Based on that (very limited) experience, I have come to the conclusion that the folks in that industry aren't really sure what to do with a choir on stage. Its like they don't know how to mike it so it can be heard. When my choir sang, it sounded wonderful and powerful in the theater itself, but came off very muffled and 'background' over television. Annoying....but fun to do despite that. I don't really understand it...seems like with all the electronic technology available they'd be able to figure out a way to make the choir *sound* like a choir.

OK - nuff about all that. Please feel free to resume other oscar related discussions. LOL

J

[lilmiss'mama]

kama--Billy Crystal said something like the guy was going to get audited and something else I can't remember. Maybe Marg of Arabia will fill in the rest!