In the few years I've had this blog, I've written mostly about music that included both singers and musicians. Lately I've written a lot about a cappella music, which of course is music without instruments. But I don't know if I've ever written about instrumental music. This is largely because up until last year, I only wrote about country artists. As I've branched out into the magical world of a cappella music, it only seems fair to talk about some instrumental music. Because sometimes you don't need words. Because sometimes the music itself speaks loudly enough.
That is certainly the case with the music from The Phantom of the Opera. If you've never heard of Lindsey Stirling, she is a very talented violinist with incredible stage presence. It's so much fun watching her perform. I have yet to watch all of her music videos, but that said, I feel like this is a pretty spectacular introduction. She arranged this medley herself and did an absolutely wonderful job. It grips your attention from the very first note and takes you on an emotional roller coaster. Lindsey has put her own spin on Phantom and it's so entertaining. You're in for a real treat with this one. See for yourself.
Yeah, I love this arrangement and the video goes along with it perfectly. So mysterious and spooky in the beginning with that tension that lets you know something big is about to happen. The black and white is so fitting, especially when paired with Lindsey's costume. Seriously, her costumes are just incredible. All of them. The color coming in as the music changes was great. The band made up of Phantoms made me chuckle a bit, but you know what? It works. The more I watch it, the more I think so. Fantastic energy at this part. They all just flat out rock it. The transition from "The Phantom of the Opera" to "Angel of Music" worked so well.
This is what I was talking about with the emotional roller coaster. It's a pretty dramatic shift in mood and that is the magic of the music. Not to downplay the playing, by any means. The addition of the string section and harp was a nice touch and Lindsey plays both "Angel of Music" and then "Think of Me" so beautifully. I like the "snow" falling on the crowd. Lindsey in the graveyard, perfect. There's so many throwbacks to the musical, which I love. These two songs work so wonderfully together and that white dress she's wearing in that beautiful theater was just stunning. My favorite of all her costumes. Though the cloak was pretty awesome too. Then the way the rest of the band kicks back in for that climax and bringing in the oh-so-famous Phantom theme. Have I said that I love the arrangement? Yes? Well, it's worth repeating because I really do. Finally, going back to black and white with Lindsey looking kind of confused at the end? Again I say perfect. It brings back that spooky vibe from the opening and makes for a nice way to bookend the entire piece. Lindsey? You, and everyone involved, nailed it.
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