In Between the Lines - Live Programs
A Series of Integrated Talk and Live Performance Programs by Composer/Pianist Robert Bruce Covering a Variety of Topics Related to the Spiritual Dimensions of Music
Based on the Books In Between the Lines - Book One and In Between the Lines - Book Two by Robert Bruce
These integrated talk/live performance programs offer fascinating and inspiring insights on the more subtle aspects of music, including the creative process itself, and place special focus on how we can maximize the uplifting, purifying, therapeutic and expressive effects of music in our daily lives. Integrated into these programs are live performances (on piano and sometimes also including additional performers) of some of Robert Bruce's most evocative compositions which are presented in part to further illustrate, and offer relevant first-hand experience to, various points made in the talks. Comments and questions from participants often help to highlight more specific details and make the programs more interactive and personalized.
Robert Bruce's music is recognized in many countries and music-related communities as being among the most effective and far-reaching new music in the classical, inspirational, therapeutic and educational genres (see testimonials below). These programs can be 60 - 100 minutes and can be given as presenter/audience programs or as interactive workshop programs. They can also be given as single programs or as a series.
- The Spiritual Origins of Music
- The surprisingly obvious yet little-known truth about the ultimate source of music, what music really is and what it is actually intended for
- How every sound and piece of music represents and expresses a specific and easily-recognized state of consciousness and how an awareness of this can be used to one's advantage
- Different kinds and degrees of inspiration and the corresponding music that is created from each
- The Therapeutic Value of Music
- Redefining "music therapy" - insights and clarification on why music is therapeutic . when it is and when it is not
- Various aspects of the therapeutic value of music - some specific ways and circumstances in which music can be healing or uplifting
- Can a therapeutic effect in music ever really be a 100% expected and guaranteed experience?
- Different kinds and degrees of inspiration and the various effects the resulting pieces of music have on people who hear them
- Musical Aesthetics and Music as True Art
- Music as a means of upliftment vs. music as a means for entertainment and diversion
- The common thread running through music/art, beauty and spirituality that makes some music truly profound, meaningful and far-reaching
- consonant music vs. dissonant music and the ultimate effects of each
- What is true art and what purpose does it serve?
- Some artistic and aesthetic qualities that have been all but forgotten in today's fast-paced world
- Music as a Living Language
- Introductory-level talk, suitable for all ages 12 and over and all levels of interest and professional involvement, on writing and expressing music
- Basics in learning to use the language of music for anyone interested
- The 2 major approaches to writing/composing music and the respective effects and results of each
- How very simple and basic musical ideas can build and become profound and meaningful musical expressions
- Slowing down enough to "hear" music
- Music as a Living Language - (Workshop Programs Designed for Music Students - All Ages and Levels)
- All points from (4) above
- Finding and developing your own unique musical vocabulary
- Finding your own resources and leaning methods
- The importance of utilizing your own natural interests in writing music
- Following a thread/nurturing a seed of an idea
- Establishing a recognizable sound and atmosphere in a piece of music
- Recognizing and working with the "colours" and textures in sound and music
- Listening honestly
- Creativity and the creative process
- Reasonable expectations and how to pace one's self
- Writing music for film/TV and multimedia
- Many other points and insights