Introduction

  

    Welcome to my blog, which I have created for the F200x Explorations in Music course. As a passionate music enthusiast, I am excited to have the opportunity to share my thoughts, ideas, and unique perspectives on music with you. Music is a common interest that has helped shape my life and identity, and sharing it with others comes naturally to me. My name is Olivia Taylor, and I am thrilled to offer you a glimpse into my world of music. I also look forward to hearing your thoughts and ideas.

   I have been fortunate to experience various music genres and interact with diverse musicians. Growing up in the Caribbean, my musical influences were mainly reggae and calypso rhythms. Although my family is originally from Alaska, I spent my formative years in the Virgin Islands. I was exposed to a West Indian musical culture that shaped my taste and perspective. I have many childhood memories of attending musical events, such as Latin jazz bands playing at jazz venues in Puerto Rico and the many carnivals we attended. I moved to New York City for schooling, and I discovered a recording studio next door to my apartment in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, and an indie music venue called Death by Audio around the corner, which I often frequented. Living in New York City allowed me to attend jazz clubs where legendary musicians like Charlie Parker and Art Tatum once played. I saw many of my favorite bands from childhood, such as Cibo Matto in Central Park and Ron Carter at Blue Note. I also saw Roger Waters perform at Yankee Stadium and regularly visited The Fillmore and Music Hall of Williamsburg. I have always been deeply interested in experimental music and enjoy discovering new music when traveling. During my last visit to Germany, I had the chance to visit an exhibit called "As Slow as Possible," which features a piece of music played for the most extended duration possible without the use of computers and is still being played. I have also lived in Ireland and South America and deeply respect the instrumental talents passed down from family members through a form of tradition. Whether it's Carnatic, electronic, hip hop, heavy metal, or Uzbek, I can develop a taste for and appreciate any genre of music. Although I love music, I'm not skilled at playing musical instruments. Since I moved to Alaska, I've been exploring the local Alaskan bands to appreciate their unique music. In my free time, I plan to buy a clarinet or saxophone and practice playing during the long winter months.