John Waller Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

John Waller - Essay Example The musical techniques which Waller follows reflect the philosophies and cultural associations that he holds. Specifically, Waller focuses on uplifting music that is based on religious beliefs of Christianity. The musical techniques which Waller uses establish the same ideas and theories while helping to create stronger recognition of Christian music and expressions with the use of musical ideas. Examining six of the songs of Waller also develops a deeper understanding of the musical representations of Waller. The first song analyzed is â€Å"Identity† from the CD â€Å"The Blessing.† The concept of this is based on one finding their identity in God and Jesus while practicing different Christian beliefs in terms of what one’s true identity is. The structure is the first musical technique which highlights this. The structure is verse, chorus, verse, chorus. The verse has a specific set of chords that continue throughout the song. This combines with a change in the chorus to chords that are higher than the chorus to highlight the lyrics of â€Å"So you are, So I am†¦ I Am You.† The chords and the movement up are able to highlight the concept of identity with the song. The rhythm follows this with a steady rock beat in 4/4. This moves at a medium – fast pace to create a feeling of happiness throughout the song. This continues with the arrangement of music, including the bass, electronic guitar and drums. Each of these moves at a medium – fast pace to keep with the same idea. When one listens to this song, there is a sense of being happy and at peace with the concept of identity while establishing a different understanding of how the idea of being Christian and with Christ is one which reflects in happiness and peace. The second song, â€Å"The Blessing,† also from the CD â€Å"The Blessing† holds similar connotations as the first. The rhythm is in a fast four or 2/4 that is a part of the piece. The arran gement includes electronic guitar, piano, synthesizer, bass and drums. The introduction has a louder dynamic and seems to move faster. The first verse then moves at a slower pace with only a background drum holding the beat while the words and singing is highlighted. The same louder sound then comes back in for the second verse to make a louder sound and to highlight the idea of â€Å"let it be said of us.† The song is able to use these louder and softer differences to create a sense of motivation among others while the faster rock sound creates a movement of happiness and of being lifting. After the first verse and between the chorus, the sound becomes slightly louder to highlight the main message. The chords at this point move to a higher range to use the technique of motivation as the main highlight and to bring out the main hook of the song â€Å"be a blessing in life.† The music then moves back to the verse with the same chord change. When this occurs, the chorus seems to be more uplifting while the verses lead into this highlight and set of changes. The last part of the bridge is one that slightly alters by slowing down the rhythm accompaniment while moving faster with the lyrics. The faster rhythm and pauses then highlights the song. When this moves back to the chorus it is able to highlight the main message. The song ends with a coda that has a slower pace with the singing and similar chord change to highlight the motivational points of the song. The techniques of the song then work to create highlights that motivate the message of â€Å"being a blessing for life†. The third song, â€Å"Still Calls Me Son† from the CD â€Å"The