Pocomoke, MD, October 21, 2024 - Pocomoke Middle schoolers were captivated by Daniel Bowen and Symphony 21's performance, "Transforming Minds through the Power of Music."
Presenting to third, fourth, and fifth graders at the school, Bowen stressed how music can impact the way you feel and can be a powerful tool to change how you feel. Explaining scientifically using a glass of water and sand on a vibration table, Bowen shared how the sound vibrations in your ears when listening to music can affect humans both visually and emotionally.
Bowen also explained that music without words allows the human imagination to come alive, allowing for more creativity, and allows us to step outside of traditional language.
Citing a scientific study of three beakers of rice with water added to each, Bowen explained that each day the scientist said, "thank you" in a kind voice to one beaker, "You're an idiot" in an unkind voice to the second beaker, and completely ignored the third beaker. After thirty days, the first beaker of rice fermented and gave off a pleasant odor, the second beaker of rice turned black and gray, and the third beaker of rice rotted. This study provides scientific evidence of the power of positive sound vibrations. It visually showed students how kind words resonate with others versus how unkind words can negatively impact others.
Bowen's presentation also included a demonstration of the technology he incorporates into his shows, such as electrified orchestral instruments (electrified violin and electrified cello), Apple devices, midi keyboards, amplifiers, etc.
"We are very fortunate to partner with Mr. Bowen and Symphony 21 for this rich experience for our students," said Coordinator of Instruction Tamara Mills. "The students who participated were engaged and moved by this presentation, which will lead to a greater appreciation not only for music, but for the power of sound itself."
Symphony 21 is a diverse group of national and international musicians, headquartered in Salisbury, Maryland, by creator and director, Daniel Bowen. Symphony 12 is a Creative Arts Movement that inspires youth and unites communities through the Power of Music! As the name suggests, Symphony 21 is committed to propelling traditional art forms into the 21st century by exposing youth to modern approaches to music, technology, and visual arts.
