Commentary
Although many may think the traditional Austrian folk song “Edelweiss” is indeed a classic, it may surprise you to learn that it is not actually a traditional Austrian folk song. In fact, it is a new composition by Richard Rodgers with lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein, created in 1959 for the play and movie “The Sound of Music.”
This reverse engineering of tradition is not necessarily a negative thing. It serves as a testament to the marketing genius of composers, a skill that is often associated with American culture.
I recently had the pleasure of hearing the song at an Oktoberfest event over the weekend. The crowd enthusiastically sang along, reminding me that even in tumultuous times, events like Oktoberfest can bring communities together and revive a sense of unity and celebration.
As I parked my car and made my way up a grassy hill, the sounds of the euphonium quartet playing classic tunes associated with German brass bands filled the air. This tradition originated in Bavaria in 1810 as a celebration of a royal wedding, and has since become a staple of German culture.
Today, Oktoberfest celebrations are held across the United States, serving as a tribute to German culture and a community-building event. This revival of traditional festivals has been made possible by local breweries and small business owners, who use these events as a marketing strategy to bring people together.
The music at the festival sparked a memory from my childhood, when my father, a musician and scholar, introduced me to playing in a German band. Despite the unfamiliarity of the songs and attire, the experience was a fun and memorable one, showcasing the power of music to transcend cultural boundaries.
Oktoberfest’s persistence in the United States is particularly charming, considering the historical animosity towards Germany during the 20th century wars. Despite past conflicts, these festivals continue to thrive, celebrating Bavarian culture and traditions.
Reflecting on the history of music and its ability to preserve traditions, one cannot overlook the impact of written music as a technology. Developed in the 11th century by Guido d’Arezzo, written music revolutionized the way musical traditions were passed down through generations, ultimately shaping the future of music.
With the invention of musical notation, the transmission of music from generation to generation became much easier. Music could now be ported over time and space, allowing for the recreation of complex compositions without ever having been heard before. This led to the development of various musical genres, from classical to modern pop and rap.
The innovation of musical notation allowed for the creation of instrumental arrangements of any song, making it possible to hear familiar tunes in new and unique ways. For a small fee, composers can now render songs into different arrangements, such as turning a Taylor Swift song into a string quartet piece.
Music plays a crucial role in preserving traditions and evoking specific emotions and memories. Different genres of music are like building blocks that are passed down from person to person, generation to generation. Movie soundtracks, military marches, love songs, and Gregorian chants all have the power to transport us to different places and evoke various feelings.
Events like Oktoberfest bring communities together through music, food, and celebration. These festivals provide a sense of belonging and connection to one’s heritage, creating a beautiful community event where people can come together to enjoy each other’s company.
As we approach the holiday season, filled with music, food, and family gatherings, it’s important to remember the value of community celebrations in our own neighborhoods. These events offer a sense of joy and connection that can’t always be found on a national level.
Ultimately, music has the power to bring people together and create lasting memories. Whether it’s a traditional folk song or a modern pop hit, music has the ability to transcend time and space, connecting us to our past and shaping our future.
Source link
