Species Part I

If you don't know much about music, that's okay. I am continually learning. Music has so many different styles or genres and everyone has an opinion about them. So I'm going to give mine.

Classical - a written tradition of music. It is composed using music notation and often refers to orchestral music in general.

• I find classical very entertaining to watch because the people playing are extremely skilled and totally in tune with the song. Another reason this music is good is it's dang difficult. One of my favorite classical pieces is Beethoven's Piano No. 14 Sonata (commonly referred to as Moonlight Sonata).

Gospel - a musical genre characterized by dominant vocals (often with strong use of harmony) referencing lyrics of a religious nature.

• I have had a chance to play with gospel musicians and the music is amazing. The music is driving and deep and exciting. If you ever get a chance, listen to anything by Israel Houghton

Jazz - primarily an instrumental form of music. The instrument most closely associated with jazz may be the saxophone, followed closely by the trumpet. The rombone, piano, double bass, guitar and drums are also primary jazz instruments.

• I love jazz music simply because of how the musicians flow and are one with their instrument. The improvisation in jazz music is something that can't be taught. It's incredible. To hear live jazz in the Twin Cities, check out: http://www.jazz-clubs-worldwide.com/docs/minn.htm

Latin American - music of Mexico, Central America, South America and the Caribbean. Has a rich variety in their culture.

• I haven't and don't listen to much of this. I'm sure it's sweet simply because it's tied directly to their culture and heritage.

Blues/Rhythm & Blues - a vocal and instrumental music form which emerged in the African -American community of the United States.

• I am a fan of some of the blues music. It has a lot of soul to it, but I couldn't listen to too much of it.