creative_project_audio.m4a |
Ariel is described as a spirit able to perform magical tasks for Prospero. He does not have a definitive gender, which gives him a mystical feel in the context of the play. Caliban describes Ariel’s music on the island as “Sounds and sweet airs” (3.2.136), and Ferdinand is unsure if the music “I’th’ air, or th’ earth?” (1.2.388) This airy and otherworldly image greatly influenced my interpretation. I used both the soft and suspending pedals on the piano to create a floating and continuous stream of sound. I interpreted the rhythms so as to keep a sense of movement throughout the piece, without any harsh patterns. Both my project and interpretation allowed me to connect to a side of Ariel that was merely described in the play. When reading the script, the impact of the music is lost, and Ariel’s character is not fully appreciated. But with the music, we are able to experience Ariel from Caliban's and Ferdinand's persepctives. My instrument unfortunately loses some of Ariel’s qualities, for it can only imitate other instruments to a certain extent. A wider range of tones, perhaps with flutes and strings would create a fuller image.
By Sarah Royka