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Orchestra in a Box
Classical musicians have bitterly opposed the use of computers in the orchestra pit for years. Now, a small group is breaking ranks — and arguing that it's the best hope for revitalizing the art. Also, a look at two albums released on USB drives, the modern-day floppy disk. Plus: singer-songwriter Jose Conde plays danceable Afro-Cuban music with a funk edge. He and his band Ola Fresca ("Fresh Wave") perform live in studio.
Virtual Orchestras
Computers have replaced musicians in classical recordings made for commercials and movie soundtracks. So-called "virtual orchestras" are even used in touring musicals and Cirque du Soleil shows. Now, some conductors, musicians and engineers say improved technology may help classical music win new converts. We talk with Wall Street Journal reporter Jacob Hale Russell.
Music in a Flash
The White Stripes are doing it. Barenaked Ladies were among the first to do it. Even the late Bob Marley is getting in on the action. Artists are releasing digital versions of albums on portable USB drives, the pocket-sized flash-memory "sticks" that replaced floppy disks. The limited edition items are collectible, sure, but are USB albums more than a novelty? We talk with CNET News.com Senior Writer Ina Fried.
Ina Fried's blog post on USB flash drives
CNET News.com site
Jose Conde and Ola Fresca
With his band, Ola Fresca, Cuban-American singer-songwriter Jose Conde honors the tradition of Afro-Cuban jazz while branching out into funk, cumbia, compas and much more. Before their upcoming appearance at the Global Rhythms Summer Series at Kingsborough Community College, Conde and the group perform live in the Soundcheck studio.
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