Entrainment Vs Entertainment

People often ask me, when they first see the word "entrainment" if I meant "entertainment." We all know what entertainment is, and because I am a performing musician, people assume that I have misspelled the word entertainment, but no, entrainment is very, very different!

Think of a time when you went to a concert of any kind and when the music started, the rhythmic nature of it made you start clapping, tapping or moving your whole body in synch with the rhythm! That's entrainment! The phenomenon of entrainment was named in the Journal "Cortex." This was written as the abstract of an article on entrainment:

"Wherever human beings live, and however they may organize their affairs, they gather from time to time to sing and dance together, often in a ritual setting. In doing so they synchronize their voices and bodily movements to a shared, repeating interval of time, the musical pulse, beat or tactus. We take this capacity to "entrain" to an evenly paced stimulus. (isochrony) so much for granted that it may come as a surprise to learn that from a biological point of view such behavior is exceptional. But it is not altogether unique."

So how does this apply to surgery? One of the reasons that music is so powerful during surgery is that the pulse of the music entrains your heartbeat and breathing, even when you're under general anesthesia. Many people believe that when you're under anesthesia you can't actually "hear" the music. That's where the difference between entertainment and entrainment comes in.

The idea began to take shape in my mind that some people in comas had been observed for years, tapping a toe or foot or finger, in rhythm with music being played or sung in the room. Some people would awaken from lengthy comas, reporting that they ha indeed heard and appreciated music that was played or sung to them while in a coma.

After researching similar phenomena during surgery, I found that hundreds of people each year awaken from general anesthesia saying that they heard not only conversations during their surgery, they heard music that was being played through speakers, intended for the doctors. They also heard, during certain surgeries, the sound of drills, hammers and saws!! This is when I began wondering if music that would start the entrainment process, played through super-lightweight headphones, might not be a wonderful thing.

Before I proceeded further, I was advised to get a U.S. Patent, which I did, and we now have the only patented process for choosing the most successful music for starting the entrainment process for the patient. Once the patient's heart-rate, breathing, and emotional state are entrained to the music, the patient stays relaxed during the surgery and less anesthesia and other meds are required to keep the patient asleep and comfortable during whatever procedure they are undergoing.

Today, our Surgical Serenity Solution provides this calm and relaxing process to patients around the country. After researching the very best music for entrainment, I have come up with a playlist that is soothing, comforting, and starts the entrainment process. If you are having surgery in the near future, please consider using music, through lightweight, cordless headphones!

By Dr. Alice Cash

Contemporary Art in Your Homes

In today's modern era contemporary art remains to find its place in homes, commercial offices and buildings. This is because contemporary art is a true beauty of the handiwork of seasoned artists and they are a great addition to beautifying a room. Whether you want to create an ambient atmosphere suited for a relaxing environment or one that will stimulate the senses of the viewer of the artwork, it takes different forms to accomplish that effect. Some art collectors like to keep artworks created by contemporary artists because of how intricately their works are made. If you are planning to buy one, it helps to know these tips to help you find a great collection of this artwork and how you can make them perfectly fit your home designs.

Understand the purpose of buying contemporary art

There are many reasons why people like to buy inspiring art from the 70's. Some buy them plainly for home decorating while others like to keep them at home for their art collection gallery. There are also those that are looking for a good investment to make from its designs and value. These are important considerations when looking for the contemporary masterpieces to buy and make sure that when buying one it suits your purpose well.

Keep an eye on the price tag

Not all aged arts are created equal. Older pieces of artworks usually cost more than the latest creation of the modern artists. If your goal is investment when buying the artwork, then you should invest well and choose the higher priced antique collections. If you simply want to show off a beautiful painting on your walls, there are cheaper art collections that come as nice as the expensive ones in terms of the design value.

The artistic value

The contemporary art value is also regarded in consideration of its creator. Seasoned contemporary artists are known for their handiwork, skills and reputation in their field of industry and their works are already considered of high value in terms of quality, design and longevity. Avoid buying contemporary arts that are worthless and created by artists that simply copied their art from the style of the other artists. Good artists are those that can express inspiring ideas and their works are marked with originality. High quality masterpieces of this kind are likely to be good investment. They usually retain their quality value especially in public auctions.

Determine your taste

Contemporary art evolves and it may take different forms. Your choice will depend upon your own taste of style and design from a contemporary masterpiece. You can choose from the modern approach of contemporary designs or remain to opt for the conservative style of this masterpiece. Landscape paintings remain to be popular in the industry but more bizarre and abstract designs of contemporary paintings begin to emerge and are quite accepted by the contemporary art community because of its exciting, intriguing and unique forms. When choosing the contemporary art to buy, make sure that the design and color best suit in complementing your home furniture and walls.

By Gregory Garcia

Musical Performances at Local Theaters

For most people, theaters are places to watch the latest film releases. And with so many new films coming out on a monthly basis, there's always something new to watch during your free time on the weekends! However, sometimes it's fun to watch live people perform on stage. What different types of live performances can you see at a local performing arts venue?
Broadway
Broadway performances use music, dancing, and theatrical acting to tell a story. Beginning in a theater located on Broadway Street in New York City, Broadway has become an intricate part of the American culture since the mid-19th century.
Some of the most popular Broadway plays have been The Phantom of the Opera, Cats, The Lion King, Wicked, and Les Miserables. In addition to being performed on stage numerous times, these shows have also been made into feature-length films.
Ballet
Ballet uses music, dance and facial expression to convey emotion and tell a story. This form of entertainment has been around since the 15th century. It first became popular in Italy and gradually made its way throughout Europe. In the beginning, ballet was a form of entertainment provided only for rich noblemen and noblewomen.
Towards the late-19th century, ballet settled in Russia. Some of the most popular ballets like The Nutcracker, The Sleeping Beauty, and Swan Lake were created during this time. These ballets continue to be performed in theaters all over the world.
Musical Performances
From individual instrumental performances to marching bands or large symphonies, there are a wide variety of ways to enjoy beautiful, inspiring music. Performing arts theaters often host local artists as well as world-renowned performers throughout the year. You can usually find schedules and purchase tickets for performances online.
Advantages to Attending Musical Performances
Individual artist performances inspire others to learn and enjoy music. Whether you enjoy the classical sounds of piano, the airy sound of a wind instrument, or the percussive beat of drums, taking music lessons empowers an individual to enjoy music at any time!
Many instruments can be combined to make a beautiful medley of sound. From a string quartet to the soaring sounds of a symphony, the many instruments combine to create a beautiful world of sound. A marching band combines the sounds of wind and brass along with percussion to lift the spirits and stir patriotic emotions.
Even larger instruments can be combined together. Piano players who enjoy making music together can enjoy piano duets and even quartets on two pianos. Playing the two instruments together is quite a rhythmic feat. And watching a piano quartet play is amazing!
Vocal Performances
From soloists to barbershop quartets to large choirs, the voice is a beautiful instrument. Sopranos, altos, tenors and basses combine together to create music. Some use songs with words and instrumental accompaniment, while others use vocal sounds to create haunting melodies without any words.
Just the Beginning...
Ballet, Broadway, and musical performances all open the door for wonderful musical performances. And at these same theaters you can also experience plays, speeches, and a wide variety of other non-musical performances too.

By Anders Abadie

Synopsis Of 'Oedipius Rex' By Sophocles

The story begins with a dialogue between Oedipus, the king of Thebes, and the priest, as they discuss the evil predicament that has befallen their land; blights on their harvest and grazing flocks. Oedipus informs the priest of having sent his consort brother, Menoeceus's son, Creon, to inquire from the Pythian Phoebus at his Delphic shrine, how the state might be saved.

Before long, Creon arrives bringing news from the gods. He says what they demand is the punishment, either by death or banishment, of the murderer of the past King, Laius son of Labdacus. Oedipus, who is new to the land, and keen to bring to light this criminal who is the cause of their woes, asks him details of the murder.

In another scene, Oedipus lays a curse on the killer, prohibits all Thebans from associating with him and encourages those who have knowledge of him to announce it.

The chorus/elders advise Oedipus to summon Teiresias, the blind seer, to give his opinion on the issue. But Oedipus had already sent Creon, in a much earlier time, to bring him to the palace.

Eventually, Teiresias, the widely renowned seer arrives at the palace. He is very unwilling to speak on the Laius and his murderer, the issue for which he was summoned; he in fact requests that he be allowed to take his leave. However, Oedipus accuses him of being the murderer. Hearing this, Teiresias made a counter-accusation by daring to say Oedipus himself was the man who killed Laius. After the exchange of invectives, Oedipus claims that Teiresias must have conspired with Creon to blemish and overthrow him. After hearing this, Teiresias prophesies that Oedipus will be exiled from Thebes and have his eyes no more after he discovers his true lineage.

Creon comes out to deny the king's allegations, asking what is he to gain from bidding to overthrow him. He would rather not inherit the position at such a trying time, because all he desires, fame and fortune, are already his; the crown is just a burden. Nevertheless, Oedipus threatens him with death, after he, Creon, suggested banishment.

Jocasta enters and pleads with her husband, Oedipus, to believe Creon for his oath's sake, for her sake and for the sake of the elders (chorus). She went ahead to enquire about the cause of the rift. After hearing the claim of the seer, she told him that it could not be true as it was formally predicted that Laius would be killed by his son at a spot where three roads meet. But obviously, he was murdered by highway robbers, as reported by the survivor of the attack. Oedipus was shocked on hearing this fact, so he asked where exactly the incident happened. Jocasta said Phocis, where roads from Daulis and Delphi meet. He asks further, trembling that perhaps the seer might be proven right, what the built of Laius was and how many attendants he had with him.

Oedipus then immediately demands that the Serf, who survived, be brought before him for questioning. He thereafter narrates the cause of his fear to Jocasta, how a drunkard once told him that he is not the true son of his seer (Polybus; and Merope, his mother), how he visited Delphi and Apollo told him of a prophesy that he would kill his father and sleep with his mother, how he ran away and killed some men when he got to the three-branching road. But there is hope of him not being the killer if the Serf confirms that indeed it was an army of robbers that killed Laius and not a lone wayfarer.

Shortly afterwards, a messenger comes from Corinth bringing news of Polybus's (Oedipus guardian) death, and the search for a new king. This gladdens Oedipus because it seems that the prophecies were false after all, as his father died not through his hands. Nevertheless, he mentions his fear of returning to Corinth because Merope, his mother, still lives and he does not want the second part of the prophecy to materialise.

The messenger offers to rid him of this fear by disclosing that Polybus and Merope are not his real parents, adding that it was he who gave him to Polybus, after another shepherd who is from Laius's palace hands him over to him. This other shepherd turns out to be the same as the witness of Laius's death.

Oedipus, against the wish of Jocasta, wants to get to the root of the matter. He wants to discover his true lineage. Hence, he asks, more emphatically, that the shepherd be brought for questioning.

In next to no time, the long-awaited shepherd who is expected to shed more light on the conundrum finally arrives. He was very reluctant to give straight answers to Oedipus's questions, he even rebuked the Corinthian messenger for saying Oedipus is the accursed child he gave to him years back. However, he soon admitted it, after Oedipus threatened him with death. He also admitted that Jocasta, his mother, gave him to her so that he may get rid of him.

Oedipus was devastated, that, after cursing himself, he immediately left the scene. Not long after his exit, a second messenger came in with the terrible news of Jocasta's death. She was said to have committed suicide through hanging. And then Oedipus himself inflicted injury on himself, he used the golden brooches on Jocasta's robe to smite his eyeballs, thereby blinding himself.

Oedipus, came out, a wretched scene he was. He asked that Creon exile him from the land into the desert so that no eye may behold him and Thebes may be freed from his curse. But Creon refused, firstly deciding to consult the gods, and then instructing Oedipus to leave by himself, if he must.

Such was the fate of Oedipus of Thebes, the son of Laius. And such was the evil calling and cunning desire of the gods. To kill his father, lay with his mother, and spend the rest of his miserable life groping in darkness and humiliation.

By Adekunle F Adebajo

What's the Difference Between Cinematography and Videography?

When it comes to creating recorded content (films and videos), there are some confusing terms that must be understood in order to ensure you choose the right partner. Whether you're looking to create an informative video or a promotional piece, you need to know the difference between cinematography and videography. While similar, those two terms are not interchangeable. What's different between a cinematographer and a videographer?

Cinematography

In the traditional sense, cinematography refers to shooting actual film or digital cinema with a large crew. It also implies other aspects of the traditional film making world - massive sets, cranes, dollies and track for the camera and operator to ride while filming, along with massive lighting fixtures and more.

Videography

Videography refers to capturing images via digital format, not traditional film stock. There may or may not be sets, lighting and other elements involved. Videography is usually not associated with film making, but it is seeing increasing adoption here. A videographer is usually a camera operator on a small crew or working solo.

Other Key Differences

In addition to the information above, there are other key differences between a cinematographer and videographer. Cinematography usually involves a large crew with a Director of Photography orchestrating the camera and lighting departments. There are more decision makers on set from the Producer, Director, Assistant Director to the Director of Photography. Camera operators work the cameras, while the cinematographer ensures that every decision benefits the vision of the film, the director and the objectives of the project. Cinematographers are often referred to as a Director of Photography and bring the vision of the Director to life through lighting and composition.

With videography, the situation is different. A videographer is usually the camera operator as well. Videography usually implies that the person is either working alone, or as part of a small crew. Where cinematography is associated with moviemaking and film production, videography is associated with things like live TV broadcasting, TV commercial creation, corporate videos, wedding videos and the like. Videographers can also handle other aspects of the process that can include editing and sound, while cinematographers usually don't.

The Changes Induced by Technology

A good bit of the confusion surrounding cinematography and videography stems not just from the vague similarities between the two fields, but the change of technology. As mentioned, a cinematographer usually works with actual film stock, but that's changing. Digital technology (DSLR cameras) as well as 35m digital cinema cameras are replacing film stock at an incredible pace. You'll also find that the same technology is being utilized by videographers and the surrounding area. This puts the same technology in the hands of both sets of professionals, giving them something of the same capabilities, if not the same career focuses. Having said that, both professions require experience and a specific skill set, not only technically but creatively.

Of course, the qualities that make a great videographer go beyond technology. You can't choose a professional for your needs based on whether they call themselves a videographer or a cinematographer. In fact, videographers are becoming the preferred option for most clients, whether you're in need of capturing the story of your wedding or the story of your company. Videographers are dedicated to creativity, style, and creating a mesmerizing story that doubles as art.

By Paul Nandrajog

Attracting Customers When Plein Air Painting

You set out to do your landscape painting in the great outdoors. You think it's just going to be you, your painting supplies and the natural world. Well, you're wrong. There's always the chance that passers-by will notice you hard at work. They may carry on walking or they may start a conversation with you. Every single person is a potential customer, so do you turn these passers-by into customers?

Will strangers really buy my art?

When people stop and talk to you, they're showing that they're interested. Not everyone who stops to talk will end up buying your art, though. But the more time you spend plein air painting, the more people will speak to you and the greater chance you stand of finding new customers. Even if you only gain one or two new customers, every little helps. You wouldn't have gained those customers if you'd spend that time painting in a studio.

Be friendly and polite

This person is going out of their way to engage in conversation with you. Even if you don't want to speak to anyone, you have to be friendly and polite. If you show no interest at all, the person, your potential customer, is just going to walk away and there's a potential sale lost. Sales work both ways, so if the potential customer has started reaching out to you, it's up to you to reciprocate.

Get the conversation going

Don't spend the whole conversation talking about yourself, but do let the potential customer know who you are. Mention an upcoming exhibition and say when and where it's going to be. Tell them about paintings you've done before. Ask them if they've done any painting and talk about what you both enjoy about painting. Offer some interesting facts about the place you're painting. This is an opportunity to sell your work, so make the most of it, but don't overdo it.

Offer your details

The potential customer will leave at some point, so they have to have a means of contacting you. If they leave and they have no way of getting in touch with you, chances are they're not going to try to get in touch with you. Offer them a business card with your details on it. Better yet, offer them a free photograph of the painting you're working. The potential customer will be delighted to be receiving something for nothing.

Let them end the conversation.

No matter which way the conversation's going, you should always let the customer end it on their terms. They started it, so they should choose when to finish it. Try to keep them talking for as long as possible and get them interested about your work. If you end the conversation, you're showing you're not interested in taking things further. Of course, do be polite if the potential customer decides to leave or even politely declines your offer of a business card or free photo.

These are just a few tips to help turn a passer-by into a customer. Plein air painting offers a great way to gain new customers and build up your customer base. It can be very easy to do and having a nice conversation that results in a new customer is a nice bonus. Have you got any more tips?

By Joanne Perkins 

Getting Started As a Magician

It is very difficult to be a magician, as it is probably one of the most difficult arts to practice and master. However, once you reach the point where you believe you've mastered some amazing stunts, you might want to gain notoriety as a magician. Let us have a brief guideline on how to get started as an up and coming magician.

We have presumed that the person in question already has some skills outside of coin and card tricks in order to get started.

Every magician has his/her own special abilities and qualities. It is a humble request to every magician not to try to copy other famous magicians because in this process you may lose your originality. It is important to learn from some of these famous magicians but one should not try to copy them, as each one of them is different in his/her own ways.

Take for example Harry Houdini and Dynamo. Both these magicians are extremely skilful and yet both have diametrically opposite styles. Houdini was more of an over the top magician who loved being flashy and extravagant. Dynamo on the other hand is like a silent killer, who lets his actions speak more than words. It is important for a budding magician to retain his/her persona and act accordingly.

The budding magician must take up small shows at birthdays and other functions in order to garner some kind of confidence. The budding magician should never shy away from these shows, as some magicians confront their egos while doing such shows. It is important to remember that a sequential manner would benefit in the longer term. Hence, these small shows should be used as a confidence building measure. In addition, if one feels that he/she has performed a mistake, try to laugh it out and show that it was meant to be one.

Last but not the least; the magician should upload his/her magic videos on various media sites like YouTube. The magician should then do a proper marketing of this video and follow it up with other videos too. These videos, when will performed and unique, will make you popular among. If you are popular on internet then it will not take a long time for you to be popular as a magician too.

Social media and practice in front of an audience has helped many a magician get started in there careers. If you're really hard up for gigs, you can even promise to do a free one to start, and then film that show for YouTube to show how you are in front of an audience.

By James J Anthony