University of Calgary

Natalie Warren's blog

Music History and Literature 309, Music and Popular Culture

Welcome to the Beat Scene Blog written by Natalie Warren, an English Major heading out to experience and explore the varied aspects of New York City Music and Culture. In conjunction with the Centre for International Students and Study Abroad (CISSA) and headed by our Prof John C. Reid, I will be taking part in the Group Study Program New York City: Musicals, Music, and Culture – May 2009 offered by the University of Calgary. While traveling I will receive credit for Music History and Literature 309, Music and Popular Culture.

This blog will document and contrast New York City from the point of view of the New American Poetry with the present day culture as experienced by a University of Calgary student during this trip. Language and Music are interrelated aspects of the New York City Beat Scene, and by contrasting the works of various "New York Poets" to the real time experience of New York City Musical Culture I hope to demonstrate that connection and encourage others to study abroad as a part of their respective degree programs. Also documented within this blog will be the student experience of the Metropolitan Opera, Jazz at Lincoln Center and the Carnegie Club.

Home

Submitted by Natalie Warren on Wed, 2009-05-20 11:40.

May 17, 2009

As we board our plane at 8 am New York time, the wait encourages reflection of the experience. Each of us has had our own version of the trip framed in our way.

The culture shock of New York City is marginal compared to the boom cycle of Calgary that we just departed from. Viewing the Rocky Mountains on the horizon outside the window of our plane in comparison to the view of the New York City skyline makes one appreciate the space and the cleanliness of Calgary.

Exit the King

Submitted by Natalie Warren on Wed, 2009-05-20 11:36.

May 16, 2009

One great tip to students out there heading out to New York City; if you go to the box office of a play or show you want to attend, ask for the student rush ticket. I’ve had the luck of purchasing tickets for Blither Spirit and Exit the King for the low price of $26.50 each.

MoMA

Submitted by Natalie Warren on Wed, 2009-05-20 11:32.

May 15, 2009

The Museum of Modern Art in New York City houses the best modern art collection in the world. Paintings and sculptures from the late nineteenth century to the present, the fourth and fifth floors can easily take up most of your visit; I personally spent 5 hours sketching from originals of Andy Warhol and Picasso.

Grace, English Comedy and Elegant Set Design

Submitted by Natalie Warren on Wed, 2009-05-20 11:26.

May 13 & 14, 2009

Catching the matinée performance of Noel Coward’s play, 'Blithe Spirit,' was a great decision. Our program is designed in a way that allows the student some flexibility to "fill in the canvas" as they see fit. My choice was to see an English comedy set in the 1930's. Involving a medium, two ghosts, one death and supernatural occurrences the entire play hinged upon the wit of the playwright and the timing of the actors. Both were excellent in all areas.

The Wonderful Wizard of OZ

Submitted by Natalie Warren on Wed, 2009-05-20 11:17.

May 12, 2009

There is nothing quite as sweet as walking through Central Park in May in New York City. A few blocks away from our hotel, all amenities are within walking distance. After the insanity of the New York City subway, a welcome walk through Central Park helps to remind you of a time before the mad rush across 42nd street to the next block.

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