CU after summer
Now that the "busy days" are coming, here are our last posts of this school year.
Hope that you find Our Blog useful. We'll see you again in September.
In the meanwhile, let's listen to some music to get ready for the summer hols.
“Summercat” – Billie the Vision & The Dancers
I kissed you good bye at the airport. I held you so close to me. I said ‘So here we are now and I can’t stop from crying Lilly’. And you said ‘Hey hey hoo, you know this is the way to go. You will forget about me when I’m on that plane. Forget about me when I’m on that plane.’
Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you tonight
The plane took off and my love went with it. The chilly wind whipped my both cheeks hard. And the man next to me said ‘Everything is gonna be alright’. I said ‘Nothing is gonna be alright, but thank you anyway’. And then I saw your face in the airplane window. I waved my hands and I shouted to you:
Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you tonight
I wore a T-shirt and my worn out hat. Abandoned as a summer cat. And as I stood there as a broken hearted I realized you got the car keys still. So I broke into my own old car. I fell asleep on the passenger seat. I dreamed of summer sex with you and you whispered in my ear:
Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you tonight
Why can’t you leave me tomorrow instead?
And above the clouds she said to herself ‘I can’t believe how naive a man can be. That’s why I love you so and that’s why I can’t be with you…’
Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you tonight
..... and some others for you to enjoy.
Showing posts with label Music. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Music. Show all posts
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
CU after summer
Now that the "busy days" are coming, here are our last posts of this school year.
Hope that you find Our Blog useful. We'll see you again in September.
In the meanwhile, let's listen to some music to get ready for the summer hols.
“Summercat” – Billie the Vision & The Dancers
I kissed you good bye at the airport. I held you so close to me. I said ‘So here we are now and I can’t stop from crying Lilly’. And you said ‘Hey hey hoo, you know this is the way to go. You will forget about me when I’m on that plane. Forget about me when I’m on that plane.’
Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you tonight
The plane took off and my love went with it. The chilly wind whipped my both cheeks hard. And the man next to me said ‘Everything is gonna be alright’. I said ‘Nothing is gonna be alright, but thank you anyway’. And then I saw your face in the airplane window. I waved my hands and I shouted to you:
Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you tonight
I wore a T-shirt and my worn out hat. Abandoned as a summer cat. And as I stood there as a broken hearted I realized you got the car keys still. So I broke into my own old car. I fell asleep on the passenger seat. I dreamed of summer sex with you and you whispered in my ear:
Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you tonight
Why can’t you leave me tomorrow instead?
And above the clouds she said to herself ‘I can’t believe how naive a man can be. That’s why I love you so and that’s why I can’t be with you…’
Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you tonight
..... and some others for you to enjoy.
Now that the "busy days" are coming, here are our last posts of this school year.
Hope that you find Our Blog useful. We'll see you again in September.
In the meanwhile, let's listen to some music to get ready for the summer hols.
“Summercat” – Billie the Vision & The Dancers
I kissed you good bye at the airport. I held you so close to me. I said ‘So here we are now and I can’t stop from crying Lilly’. And you said ‘Hey hey hoo, you know this is the way to go. You will forget about me when I’m on that plane. Forget about me when I’m on that plane.’
Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you tonight
The plane took off and my love went with it. The chilly wind whipped my both cheeks hard. And the man next to me said ‘Everything is gonna be alright’. I said ‘Nothing is gonna be alright, but thank you anyway’. And then I saw your face in the airplane window. I waved my hands and I shouted to you:
Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you tonight
I wore a T-shirt and my worn out hat. Abandoned as a summer cat. And as I stood there as a broken hearted I realized you got the car keys still. So I broke into my own old car. I fell asleep on the passenger seat. I dreamed of summer sex with you and you whispered in my ear:
Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you tonight
Why can’t you leave me tomorrow instead?
And above the clouds she said to herself ‘I can’t believe how naive a man can be. That’s why I love you so and that’s why I can’t be with you…’
Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you Tonight tonight tonight tonight
I wanna be with you tonight
..... and some others for you to enjoy.
X Factor: Simon quits as UK judge
Simon Cowell won't be returning as a weekly judge on the new series of The X Factor. There have been loads of rumours about his role because he's busy launching the show in America.
ITV said it's looking at ways for Simon to appear later on in the series - and we're told he will continue to have an "enormous presence" backstage. "We have known for some time that Simon's on-screen presence would be less this year," an ITV spokesman said. "That is something we are completely comfortable with."
There's no word yet on the other judges Dannii Minogue, Louis Walsh, and Cheryl Cole - who has been rumoured to be in the running for a job on The X Factor USA.
Meanwhile, Britain's Got Talent kicked off on Saturday without Simon Cowell on the panel.
The ratings were down compared to the first episode of previous series, but Simon's due to return as a judge for the live shows.
Match the words below to their definitions
enormous / episode / in the running / kicked off / presence / role / rumours / series
number of related events or things, one following another
position or purpose that someone or something has
pieces of news that might be true or invented
very large
when someone is involved in something
having a reasonable chance of winning
started
one of the single parts into which a story is divided, especially when it is broadcast on the television or radio
True or false?
1. ITV is concerned that Cowell is not returning.
2. There is going to be series of The X Factor in America.
3. Cowell’s departure from The X Factor came as a surprise.
4. None of the other judges have confirmed that they are returning.
5. Cowell was a judge on Britain’s Got Talent in the past.
6. Cheryl Cole may get a job on television in the USA.
7. Simon Cowell will not have anything more to do with The X Factor.
8. The X Factor appears on ITV.
What is the missing word?
1. He's busy __________ the show in America.
2. That is something we are completely __________ with.
3. Britain's Got Talent kicked off on Saturday without Simon Cowell on the ____________ .
4. The __________ were down compared to the first episode of previous series.
KEY
Vocabulary
series number of related events or things, one following another
role position or purpose that someone or something has
rumours pieces of news that might be true or invented
enormous very large
presence when someone is involved in something
in the running having a reasonable chance of winning
kicked off started
episode one of the single parts into which a story is divided, especially when it is broadcast on the television or radio
True or false?
1. False
2. True
3. False
4. True
5. True
6. True
7. False
8. True
What is the missing word?
1. He's busy launching the show in America.
2. That is something we are completely comfortable with.
3. Britain's Got Talent kicked off on Saturday without Simon Cowell on the panel.
4. The ratings were down compared to the first episode of previous series.
X Factor: Simon quits as UK judge
Simon Cowell won't be returning as a weekly judge on the new series of The X Factor. There have been loads of rumours about his role because he's busy launching the show in America.
ITV said it's looking at ways for Simon to appear later on in the series - and we're told he will continue to have an "enormous presence" backstage. "We have known for some time that Simon's on-screen presence would be less this year," an ITV spokesman said. "That is something we are completely comfortable with."
There's no word yet on the other judges Dannii Minogue, Louis Walsh, and Cheryl Cole - who has been rumoured to be in the running for a job on The X Factor USA.
Meanwhile, Britain's Got Talent kicked off on Saturday without Simon Cowell on the panel.
The ratings were down compared to the first episode of previous series, but Simon's due to return as a judge for the live shows.
Match the words below to their definitions
enormous / episode / in the running / kicked off / presence / role / rumours / series
number of related events or things, one following another
position or purpose that someone or something has
pieces of news that might be true or invented
very large
when someone is involved in something
having a reasonable chance of winning
started
one of the single parts into which a story is divided, especially when it is broadcast on the television or radio
True or false?
1. ITV is concerned that Cowell is not returning.
2. There is going to be series of The X Factor in America.
3. Cowell’s departure from The X Factor came as a surprise.
4. None of the other judges have confirmed that they are returning.
5. Cowell was a judge on Britain’s Got Talent in the past.
6. Cheryl Cole may get a job on television in the USA.
7. Simon Cowell will not have anything more to do with The X Factor.
8. The X Factor appears on ITV.
What is the missing word?
1. He's busy __________ the show in America.
2. That is something we are completely __________ with.
3. Britain's Got Talent kicked off on Saturday without Simon Cowell on the ____________ .
4. The __________ were down compared to the first episode of previous series.
KEY
Vocabulary
series number of related events or things, one following another
role position or purpose that someone or something has
rumours pieces of news that might be true or invented
enormous very large
presence when someone is involved in something
in the running having a reasonable chance of winning
kicked off started
episode one of the single parts into which a story is divided, especially when it is broadcast on the television or radio
True or false?
1. False
2. True
3. False
4. True
5. True
6. True
7. False
8. True
What is the missing word?
1. He's busy launching the show in America.
2. That is something we are completely comfortable with.
3. Britain's Got Talent kicked off on Saturday without Simon Cowell on the panel.
4. The ratings were down compared to the first episode of previous series.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
The Playbutton: a way to wear your music tastes on your sleeve
Look at the woman in this picture. • What is she wearing on her jacket? • What do you think she is listening to? Read the text and find out!
The Playbutton: a way to wear your music tastes on your sleeve
"The Playbutton is for those of us who still hang on to what's tangible," says its creator Nick Dangerfield, a Spaniard of British origin who lives in New York. After working for a company called Powershovel, where he developed a Super-8 digital camera called Harinezumi, Dangerfield set up his own firm and launched the Playbutton three weeks ago.
The device is a round, button-like music player that only plays one album, in the old-fashioned way: the songs are in the order the band wanted them to be, and cannot be deleted or replaced with other content. It is attached to your clothes via a pin in the back, and the four-hour battery can be recharged using a USB port.
But why would someone want to spend $20 (€14) on this when the same album will be available on iTunes for just 9 euros? "The Playbutton is a way to express your passion for a band and to support it financially," says Dangerfield. "It is a different sound experience from an iPhone, which does not let you know what someone is listening to."
The first band to embrace the technology was Bubbles, a favourite in New York's underground circles. At a recent party, the band introduced its album, released exclusively through Playbutton and produced by Parte LLC.
Dangerfield and his business partner, the Spaniard Víctor Esther, who is also the art director, eventually want to create a small record label that will produce albums in Playbutton format. The Playbutton will soon go on sale at Madrid's Casa Peseta.
Match each verb from the text to what follows it and match each expression to its meaning:1 hang the technology a) keep, not throw away or discard
2 set with other content b) start a business
3 embrace on to something c) substitute with other music
4 attach up a firm or company d) be available to buy
5 replace financially e) fasten onto what you are wearing
6 support on sale f) start using the device
7 go to your clothes g) help by giving money
Question 1 [2 points]
Indicate whether the following statements are true or false and write down which part of the text justifies your answer.
a) Nick Dangerfield is the owner of Powershovel.
b) It costs more to buy an album on Playbutton than on Itunes.
c) Nick Dangerfield has plans to do more things in the music industry.
d) You can already buy the Playbutton in the Spanish capital.
Question 2 [2 points]
Answer the following questions in your own words.
a) What is a Playbutton?
b) Who are Bubbles and how have they used Playbutton?
Question 3 [1.5 points]
Find words or phrases in the text that correspond in meaning to the words and definitions given.
a) inventor (paragraph 1)
b) remove, erase (paragraph 2)
c) connection (paragraph 2)
Question 4Complete the following sentences without changing the meaning.
a) ‘Have you ever been to Sydney?’ asked Paul
Paul asked Maria …….
b) We arrived too late to catch the plane.
If ……….
c) That’s my neighbour. He lives in the flat on the fifth floor.
That’s the ……
Question 5 Write a short essay (between120-150 words) on the following topic:
How do you choose the music you listen to?
The Playbutton: a way to wear your music tastes on your sleeve
Look at the woman in this picture. • What is she wearing on her jacket? • What do you think she is listening to? Read the text and find out!
The Playbutton: a way to wear your music tastes on your sleeve
"The Playbutton is for those of us who still hang on to what's tangible," says its creator Nick Dangerfield, a Spaniard of British origin who lives in New York. After working for a company called Powershovel, where he developed a Super-8 digital camera called Harinezumi, Dangerfield set up his own firm and launched the Playbutton three weeks ago.
The device is a round, button-like music player that only plays one album, in the old-fashioned way: the songs are in the order the band wanted them to be, and cannot be deleted or replaced with other content. It is attached to your clothes via a pin in the back, and the four-hour battery can be recharged using a USB port.
But why would someone want to spend $20 (€14) on this when the same album will be available on iTunes for just 9 euros? "The Playbutton is a way to express your passion for a band and to support it financially," says Dangerfield. "It is a different sound experience from an iPhone, which does not let you know what someone is listening to."
The first band to embrace the technology was Bubbles, a favourite in New York's underground circles. At a recent party, the band introduced its album, released exclusively through Playbutton and produced by Parte LLC.
Dangerfield and his business partner, the Spaniard Víctor Esther, who is also the art director, eventually want to create a small record label that will produce albums in Playbutton format. The Playbutton will soon go on sale at Madrid's Casa Peseta.
Match each verb from the text to what follows it and match each expression to its meaning:1 hang the technology a) keep, not throw away or discard
2 set with other content b) start a business
3 embrace on to something c) substitute with other music
4 attach up a firm or company d) be available to buy
5 replace financially e) fasten onto what you are wearing
6 support on sale f) start using the device
7 go to your clothes g) help by giving money
Question 1 [2 points]
Indicate whether the following statements are true or false and write down which part of the text justifies your answer.
a) Nick Dangerfield is the owner of Powershovel.
b) It costs more to buy an album on Playbutton than on Itunes.
c) Nick Dangerfield has plans to do more things in the music industry.
d) You can already buy the Playbutton in the Spanish capital.
Question 2 [2 points]
Answer the following questions in your own words.
a) What is a Playbutton?
b) Who are Bubbles and how have they used Playbutton?
Question 3 [1.5 points]
Find words or phrases in the text that correspond in meaning to the words and definitions given.
a) inventor (paragraph 1)
b) remove, erase (paragraph 2)
c) connection (paragraph 2)
Question 4Complete the following sentences without changing the meaning.
a) ‘Have you ever been to Sydney?’ asked Paul
Paul asked Maria …….
b) We arrived too late to catch the plane.
If ……….
c) That’s my neighbour. He lives in the flat on the fifth floor.
That’s the ……
Question 5 Write a short essay (between120-150 words) on the following topic:
How do you choose the music you listen to?
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Lady Gaga most ‘liked’ on Facebook
Social network Facebook has revealed who its most popular people were in 2010, and said that over the past year the 500 million people who use it uploaded more than 2.7 million photographs, shared 1 million links and 'Liked' 7.6 million pages in one ramdomly chosen 20 minute period.
More than 61 million people also indicated in 2010 that they were in new relationships, married or engaged: 28.4 million people changed their statuses to 'in a relationship', 36.7 million people changed their status to 'married' and 6 million people declared themselves to be 'engaged'.
Lady Gaga was the most ‘liked’, closing 2010 with 24.7 million indications of approval from her Facebook fans. She also has more than 7 million followers on Twitter. Over the summer, Lady Gaga became the first living person to reach 10 million. US rapper Eminem’s 23.7 million ‘Likes' beat Barack Obama’s 17.2 million.
The identity of the most liked celebrity on Facebook will have come as little surprise to people who have followed Lady Gaga's meteoric rise to superstardom, as she has arguably harnessed the power of social networking sites as a promotional tool more effectively than any other star.
At the beginning of December, several stars including Lady Gaga stopped updating their Facebook page or using Twitter until $1m had been raised for US charity Keep a Child Alive. The charity works in Africa and India to provide treatment and support to families of people with HIV and Aids. The campaign, called Digital Life Sacrifice, was launched on 1st December to mark World Aids Day. Lady Gaga added a photo of herself in a coffin to her Facebook page, writing: 'No more updates little monsters until we buy life.'
Question 1 (2 points)
Indicate whether the following statements are true or false and write down which part of the text justifies your answer.
a) Over 2.7 million photos were posted on Facebook during the course of last year.
b) More people follow Lady Gaga on Twitter than on Facebook.
c) Lady Gaga’s Facebook popularity is unexpected.
d) Keep a Child Alive is an American organisation.
Question 2 (2 points)
Answer the following questions in your own words.
a) How did 61 milllion people’s relationships change in 2010?
b) What happened in ‘Digital Life Sacrifice’?
Question 3 (1.5 points)
Find words or phrases in the text that correspond in meaning to the words and definitions given.
a) make public (Paragraph 1)
b) take control of (Paragraph 4)
c) commemorate (Paragraph 5)
Question 4 (1.5 points)
Complete the following sentences without changing the meaning.
a) 500 million people who use Facebook uploaded more than 2.7 million photographs. More than 2.7 million photographs .………………….………………………….
b) Lady Gaga said “I will not update my Facebook page until $1m has been raised.
Lady Gaga said that …...…………………………………………………...………………
c) Everyone thought that the campaign would raise $1m immediately but in fact it took nearly a week.
Although .......................................................................................................
Question 5 (3 points)
Write a short essay (about 120-150 words) on the following topic:
‘Nowadays people are in danger of becoming isolated individuals’. Do you agree?
a) Over 2.7 million photos were posted on Facebook during the course of last year.
b) More people follow Lady Gaga on Twitter than on Facebook.
c) Lady Gaga’s Facebook popularity is unexpected.
d) Keep a Child Alive is an American organisation.
Question 2 (2 points)
Answer the following questions in your own words.
a) How did 61 milllion people’s relationships change in 2010?
b) What happened in ‘Digital Life Sacrifice’?
Question 3 (1.5 points)
Find words or phrases in the text that correspond in meaning to the words and definitions given.
a) make public (Paragraph 1)
b) take control of (Paragraph 4)
c) commemorate (Paragraph 5)
Question 4 (1.5 points)
Complete the following sentences without changing the meaning.
a) 500 million people who use Facebook uploaded more than 2.7 million photographs. More than 2.7 million photographs .………………….………………………….
b) Lady Gaga said “I will not update my Facebook page until $1m has been raised.
Lady Gaga said that …...…………………………………………………...………………
c) Everyone thought that the campaign would raise $1m immediately but in fact it took nearly a week.
Although .......................................................................................................
Question 5 (3 points)
Write a short essay (about 120-150 words) on the following topic:
‘Nowadays people are in danger of becoming isolated individuals’. Do you agree?
Lady Gaga most ‘liked’ on Facebook
Social network Facebook has revealed who its most popular people were in 2010, and said that over the past year the 500 million people who use it uploaded more than 2.7 million photographs, shared 1 million links and 'Liked' 7.6 million pages in one ramdomly chosen 20 minute period.
More than 61 million people also indicated in 2010 that they were in new relationships, married or engaged: 28.4 million people changed their statuses to 'in a relationship', 36.7 million people changed their status to 'married' and 6 million people declared themselves to be 'engaged'.
Lady Gaga was the most ‘liked’, closing 2010 with 24.7 million indications of approval from her Facebook fans. She also has more than 7 million followers on Twitter. Over the summer, Lady Gaga became the first living person to reach 10 million. US rapper Eminem’s 23.7 million ‘Likes' beat Barack Obama’s 17.2 million.
The identity of the most liked celebrity on Facebook will have come as little surprise to people who have followed Lady Gaga's meteoric rise to superstardom, as she has arguably harnessed the power of social networking sites as a promotional tool more effectively than any other star.
At the beginning of December, several stars including Lady Gaga stopped updating their Facebook page or using Twitter until $1m had been raised for US charity Keep a Child Alive. The charity works in Africa and India to provide treatment and support to families of people with HIV and Aids. The campaign, called Digital Life Sacrifice, was launched on 1st December to mark World Aids Day. Lady Gaga added a photo of herself in a coffin to her Facebook page, writing: 'No more updates little monsters until we buy life.'
Question 1 (2 points)
Indicate whether the following statements are true or false and write down which part of the text justifies your answer.
a) Over 2.7 million photos were posted on Facebook during the course of last year.
b) More people follow Lady Gaga on Twitter than on Facebook.
c) Lady Gaga’s Facebook popularity is unexpected.
d) Keep a Child Alive is an American organisation.
Question 2 (2 points)
Answer the following questions in your own words.
a) How did 61 milllion people’s relationships change in 2010?
b) What happened in ‘Digital Life Sacrifice’?
Question 3 (1.5 points)
Find words or phrases in the text that correspond in meaning to the words and definitions given.
a) make public (Paragraph 1)
b) take control of (Paragraph 4)
c) commemorate (Paragraph 5)
Question 4 (1.5 points)
Complete the following sentences without changing the meaning.
a) 500 million people who use Facebook uploaded more than 2.7 million photographs. More than 2.7 million photographs .………………….………………………….
b) Lady Gaga said “I will not update my Facebook page until $1m has been raised.
Lady Gaga said that …...…………………………………………………...………………
c) Everyone thought that the campaign would raise $1m immediately but in fact it took nearly a week.
Although .......................................................................................................
Question 5 (3 points)
Write a short essay (about 120-150 words) on the following topic:
‘Nowadays people are in danger of becoming isolated individuals’. Do you agree?
a) Over 2.7 million photos were posted on Facebook during the course of last year.
b) More people follow Lady Gaga on Twitter than on Facebook.
c) Lady Gaga’s Facebook popularity is unexpected.
d) Keep a Child Alive is an American organisation.
Question 2 (2 points)
Answer the following questions in your own words.
a) How did 61 milllion people’s relationships change in 2010?
b) What happened in ‘Digital Life Sacrifice’?
Question 3 (1.5 points)
Find words or phrases in the text that correspond in meaning to the words and definitions given.
a) make public (Paragraph 1)
b) take control of (Paragraph 4)
c) commemorate (Paragraph 5)
Question 4 (1.5 points)
Complete the following sentences without changing the meaning.
a) 500 million people who use Facebook uploaded more than 2.7 million photographs. More than 2.7 million photographs .………………….………………………….
b) Lady Gaga said “I will not update my Facebook page until $1m has been raised.
Lady Gaga said that …...…………………………………………………...………………
c) Everyone thought that the campaign would raise $1m immediately but in fact it took nearly a week.
Although .......................................................................................................
Question 5 (3 points)
Write a short essay (about 120-150 words) on the following topic:
‘Nowadays people are in danger of becoming isolated individuals’. Do you agree?
Monday, December 20, 2010
All we want for Christmas is an old festive song
Christmas and music
Vocabulary
1 Look at these words and expressions. They are all in the text below. Do we use them to talk about money or music?
pay, cheque, hits, airing, generates, revenue, release ,
profitable, money-spinners, digital downloads, playlists, tracks
2 Now, match each of the words to the correct definition.
a) very successful songs
b) produce/create
c) making money for a person or company
c) making money for a person or company
d) music made available to buy
e) one of several songs on a CD f) money paid for work
g) when a song is played on the radio
h) something that you copy onto your computer from the internet
i) a product or activity that produces a lot of money
j) the money that a company earns on a regular basis
k) all the music that people will listen to on a particular occasion
e) one of several songs on a CD f) money paid for work
g) when a song is played on the radio
h) something that you copy onto your computer from the internet
i) a product or activity that produces a lot of money
j) the money that a company earns on a regular basis
k) all the music that people will listen to on a particular occasion
All we want for Christmas is an old festive song
Whether you love Mariah Carey or loathe Jona Lewie, there is no escaping them at this time of year. The annual resurrection of songs from Christmas past is well underway – and for the artists who penned or performed those festive favourites decades ago, the pay cheques are waiting under the tree.
Of the 20 most-played Christmas songs during the past ten years, the most modern – Mariah Carey's "All I Want For Christmas Is You" – dates from 1994. Most of the others in the list were hits in the Seventies and Eighties. They include Slade's "Merry Xmas Everybody" and Band Aid's "Do They Know It's Christmas?"
A single airing of a three-minute song on BBC Radio One generates about £37.50 for writers and £37.50 for performers, while commercial stations pay a percentage of their advertising revenue.
This means that even songs that failed to make an impact on their original release can prove highly profitable later. Chris Rea's "Driving Home For Christmas" reached just number 53 in 1988. Yet, now seventh in the most-played list, it remains one of Rea's most reliable money-spinners.
The breadth of music choice permanently available through digital downloads also means that songs no longer have to be re-released as in years gone by to take a march up the charts. "All I Want For Christmas has charted in the top 20 in each of the past three Decembers, and has already reached number 22 this year.
Martin Talbot, the managing director of The Official Charts Company, said: "At this time of year people are putting together lots of Christmas party playlists and they want to make their own compilations of tracks at home. Five or ten years ago, you'd have to buy a Christmas hits package, but now it's more democratic. People can choose what they like."
Question 1 (2 points)
Indicate whether the following statements are true or false and write down which part of the text justifies your answer.
a) The youngest song in the top twenty list of Christmas songs is sung by Mariah Carey.
b) “Merry Xmas Everybody” and “ Do They Know It’s Christmas” were both sung by Slade.
c) Chris Rea’s song “Driving Home for Christmas” is more popular now than in 1988.
d) Some people buy old songs because they are going to meet friends and celebrate Christmas.
Question 2 (2 points)
Answer the following questions in your own words.
a) How do old songs continue to make money?
b) Why is it now easier to select the songs you want to listen to?
Question 3 (1.5 points)
Find words or phrases in the text that correspond in meaning to the words and definitions given.
a) write (Paragraph 1)
b) wide choice (Paragraph 5)
c) the list of the highest selling records for one week (Paragraph 5)
Question 4 (1.5 points)
Complete the following sentences without changing the meaning.
a) Mariah Carey first sang “All I want for Christmas” in1994.
The song “All I want for Christmas” …………………………………… in 1994.
b) Martin Talbot said: “Five or ten years ago, you'd have to buy a Christmas hits package, but now it's more democratic. People can choose what they like."
According to Martin Talbot, five or …………………………………………….…..
c) A single airing of a three-minute song on BBC Radio One generates about £37.50 for writers and £37.50 for performers.
If a three-minute song is played once on BBC Radio one, both ...................................................
Question 5 (5 points)
Write a short essay (120-150 words) on the following topic:
“Music is just one of many things which help us to celebrate.” What do you think?
Most played Christmas tunes
5 I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day (1973) Wizzard
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-r8UVR9DDBo
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-r8UVR9DDBo
7 Driving Home For Christmas (1988) Chris Rea
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=czhZbqpyBm8&feature=fvsr
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=czhZbqpyBm8&feature=fvsr
10 Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow! (1966) Dean Martin
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mSSPM3ies0
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mSSPM3ies0
Key Vocabulary tasks
1
Money
Money
pay cheque, generates, percentage, revenue, profitable, money-spinners
Music
songs, hits, airing, release, digital downloads, playlists, compilations, tracks
2
a) hits b) generate c) profitable d) release e) tracks
f) pay cheque g) airing h) digital download i) money-spinner
j) revenue k) playlist
songs, hits, airing, release, digital downloads, playlists, compilations, tracks
2
a) hits b) generate c) profitable d) release e) tracks
f) pay cheque g) airing h) digital download i) money-spinner
j) revenue k) playlist
All we want for Christmas is an old festive song
Christmas and music
Vocabulary
1 Look at these words and expressions. They are all in the text below. Do we use them to talk about money or music?
pay, cheque, hits, airing, generates, revenue, release ,
profitable, money-spinners, digital downloads, playlists, tracks
2 Now, match each of the words to the correct definition.
a) very successful songs
b) produce/create
c) making money for a person or company
c) making money for a person or company
d) music made available to buy
e) one of several songs on a CD f) money paid for work
g) when a song is played on the radio
h) something that you copy onto your computer from the internet
i) a product or activity that produces a lot of money
j) the money that a company earns on a regular basis
k) all the music that people will listen to on a particular occasion
e) one of several songs on a CD f) money paid for work
g) when a song is played on the radio
h) something that you copy onto your computer from the internet
i) a product or activity that produces a lot of money
j) the money that a company earns on a regular basis
k) all the music that people will listen to on a particular occasion
All we want for Christmas is an old festive song
Whether you love Mariah Carey or loathe Jona Lewie, there is no escaping them at this time of year. The annual resurrection of songs from Christmas past is well underway – and for the artists who penned or performed those festive favourites decades ago, the pay cheques are waiting under the tree.
Of the 20 most-played Christmas songs during the past ten years, the most modern – Mariah Carey's "All I Want For Christmas Is You" – dates from 1994. Most of the others in the list were hits in the Seventies and Eighties. They include Slade's "Merry Xmas Everybody" and Band Aid's "Do They Know It's Christmas?"
A single airing of a three-minute song on BBC Radio One generates about £37.50 for writers and £37.50 for performers, while commercial stations pay a percentage of their advertising revenue.
This means that even songs that failed to make an impact on their original release can prove highly profitable later. Chris Rea's "Driving Home For Christmas" reached just number 53 in 1988. Yet, now seventh in the most-played list, it remains one of Rea's most reliable money-spinners.
The breadth of music choice permanently available through digital downloads also means that songs no longer have to be re-released as in years gone by to take a march up the charts. "All I Want For Christmas has charted in the top 20 in each of the past three Decembers, and has already reached number 22 this year.
Martin Talbot, the managing director of The Official Charts Company, said: "At this time of year people are putting together lots of Christmas party playlists and they want to make their own compilations of tracks at home. Five or ten years ago, you'd have to buy a Christmas hits package, but now it's more democratic. People can choose what they like."
Question 1 (2 points)
Indicate whether the following statements are true or false and write down which part of the text justifies your answer.
a) The youngest song in the top twenty list of Christmas songs is sung by Mariah Carey.
b) “Merry Xmas Everybody” and “ Do They Know It’s Christmas” were both sung by Slade.
c) Chris Rea’s song “Driving Home for Christmas” is more popular now than in 1988.
d) Some people buy old songs because they are going to meet friends and celebrate Christmas.
Question 2 (2 points)
Answer the following questions in your own words.
a) How do old songs continue to make money?
b) Why is it now easier to select the songs you want to listen to?
Question 3 (1.5 points)
Find words or phrases in the text that correspond in meaning to the words and definitions given.
a) write (Paragraph 1)
b) wide choice (Paragraph 5)
c) the list of the highest selling records for one week (Paragraph 5)
Question 4 (1.5 points)
Complete the following sentences without changing the meaning.
a) Mariah Carey first sang “All I want for Christmas” in1994.
The song “All I want for Christmas” …………………………………… in 1994.
b) Martin Talbot said: “Five or ten years ago, you'd have to buy a Christmas hits package, but now it's more democratic. People can choose what they like."
According to Martin Talbot, five or …………………………………………….…..
c) A single airing of a three-minute song on BBC Radio One generates about £37.50 for writers and £37.50 for performers.
If a three-minute song is played once on BBC Radio one, both ...................................................
Question 5 (5 points)
Write a short essay (120-150 words) on the following topic:
“Music is just one of many things which help us to celebrate.” What do you think?
Most played Christmas tunes
5 I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day (1973) Wizzard
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-r8UVR9DDBo
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-r8UVR9DDBo
7 Driving Home For Christmas (1988) Chris Rea
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=czhZbqpyBm8&feature=fvsr
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=czhZbqpyBm8&feature=fvsr
10 Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow! (1966) Dean Martin
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mSSPM3ies0
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mSSPM3ies0
Key Vocabulary tasks
1
Money
Money
pay cheque, generates, percentage, revenue, profitable, money-spinners
Music
songs, hits, airing, release, digital downloads, playlists, compilations, tracks
2
a) hits b) generate c) profitable d) release e) tracks
f) pay cheque g) airing h) digital download i) money-spinner
j) revenue k) playlist
songs, hits, airing, release, digital downloads, playlists, compilations, tracks
2
a) hits b) generate c) profitable d) release e) tracks
f) pay cheque g) airing h) digital download i) money-spinner
j) revenue k) playlist
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Why playing a musical instrument 'can help children learn with language skills'
If you spent hours learning a musical instrument as a child only to lose interest when you reached your teens, it may not have been a complete waste of time after all, according to a leading expert.
Learning to play an instrument has major advantages for a growing brain and should be a key part of school education, says neuroscientist Professor Nina Kraus. She points out there is strong evidence to show that music lessons help children improve their language skills. The benefits could help normal children as well as those with developmental problems such as dyslexia and autism, she argues. Prof Kraus has led the first research to demonstrate that playing a musical instrument significantly enhances the brain's sensitivity to speech sounds. The 16 highly trained musicians tested were better than 15 non-musicians at picking out key elements of speech from background noise.
‘Playing an instrument may help youngsters process speech in noisy classrooms better and more accurately interpret the nuances of language that are conveyed by subtle changes in the human voice,' Prof Klaus told the American Association for the Advancement of Science in San Diego, California.
‘Playing music engages the ability to extract relevant patterns, such as the sound of one's own instrument, harmonies and rhythms, from the "soundscape",' said Prof Kraus. ‘Not surprisingly, musicians' nervous systems are more effective at utilising the patterns in music and speech alike.’
Other studies in children and adults over the years have found that merely listening to music doesn't have as much impact on the brain as making music, but there are still benefits. Several studies have shown that listening to music can help alleviate chronic pain and reduce the need for pain medication. Other research has documented that music can help lower blood pressure, heart rate and anxiety in heart-disease patients.
Learning to play an instrument has major advantages for a growing brain and should be a key part of school education, says neuroscientist Professor Nina Kraus. She points out there is strong evidence to show that music lessons help children improve their language skills. The benefits could help normal children as well as those with developmental problems such as dyslexia and autism, she argues. Prof Kraus has led the first research to demonstrate that playing a musical instrument significantly enhances the brain's sensitivity to speech sounds. The 16 highly trained musicians tested were better than 15 non-musicians at picking out key elements of speech from background noise.
‘Playing an instrument may help youngsters process speech in noisy classrooms better and more accurately interpret the nuances of language that are conveyed by subtle changes in the human voice,' Prof Klaus told the American Association for the Advancement of Science in San Diego, California.
‘Playing music engages the ability to extract relevant patterns, such as the sound of one's own instrument, harmonies and rhythms, from the "soundscape",' said Prof Kraus. ‘Not surprisingly, musicians' nervous systems are more effective at utilising the patterns in music and speech alike.’
Other studies in children and adults over the years have found that merely listening to music doesn't have as much impact on the brain as making music, but there are still benefits. Several studies have shown that listening to music can help alleviate chronic pain and reduce the need for pain medication. Other research has documented that music can help lower blood pressure, heart rate and anxiety in heart-disease patients.
Question 1
Indicate whether the following sentences are true or false and write down which part of the text justifies your answer.
a) Kraus believes that music should play a major role in the school curriculum.
b) The results of this research were not clear.
c) Learning to play an instrument could benefit students with learning difficulties.
d) Professor Klaus is the Director of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
Question 2
Answer the following questions in your own words.
a) What skills do musicians develop which appear to help them with learning languages?
b) How have other studies shown that listening to music can be beneficial for health?
Answer the following questions in your own words.
a) What skills do musicians develop which appear to help them with learning languages?
b) How have other studies shown that listening to music can be beneficial for health?
Question 3
Find words or phrases in the text that correspond in meaning to the words and definitions given.
a) important or successful (Paragraph 1)
b) proof (Paragraph 2)
c) transmit (Paragraph 3)
Question 4
Complete the following sentences without changing the meaning.
a) Learning to play an instrument has major advantages for a growing brain and should be a key part of school education, says neuroscientist Professor Nina Kraus.
Professor Klaus claimed that learning …………………….…….. school education.
b) Playing an instrument may help youngsters process speech in noisy classrooms better and more accurately interpret the nuances of language that are conveyed by subtle changes in the human voice.
If youngsters play an instrument, this may help ………..
c) Other studies in children and adults have found that merely listening to music doesn't have as much impact on the brain as making music, but there are still benefits.
Although other studies …………………………………………..
Question 5
Write a short essay (120-150 words) on the following topic:
How important do you think music is?
Why playing a musical instrument 'can help children learn with language skills'
If you spent hours learning a musical instrument as a child only to lose interest when you reached your teens, it may not have been a complete waste of time after all, according to a leading expert.
Learning to play an instrument has major advantages for a growing brain and should be a key part of school education, says neuroscientist Professor Nina Kraus. She points out there is strong evidence to show that music lessons help children improve their language skills. The benefits could help normal children as well as those with developmental problems such as dyslexia and autism, she argues. Prof Kraus has led the first research to demonstrate that playing a musical instrument significantly enhances the brain's sensitivity to speech sounds. The 16 highly trained musicians tested were better than 15 non-musicians at picking out key elements of speech from background noise.
‘Playing an instrument may help youngsters process speech in noisy classrooms better and more accurately interpret the nuances of language that are conveyed by subtle changes in the human voice,' Prof Klaus told the American Association for the Advancement of Science in San Diego, California.
‘Playing music engages the ability to extract relevant patterns, such as the sound of one's own instrument, harmonies and rhythms, from the "soundscape",' said Prof Kraus. ‘Not surprisingly, musicians' nervous systems are more effective at utilising the patterns in music and speech alike.’
Other studies in children and adults over the years have found that merely listening to music doesn't have as much impact on the brain as making music, but there are still benefits. Several studies have shown that listening to music can help alleviate chronic pain and reduce the need for pain medication. Other research has documented that music can help lower blood pressure, heart rate and anxiety in heart-disease patients.
Learning to play an instrument has major advantages for a growing brain and should be a key part of school education, says neuroscientist Professor Nina Kraus. She points out there is strong evidence to show that music lessons help children improve their language skills. The benefits could help normal children as well as those with developmental problems such as dyslexia and autism, she argues. Prof Kraus has led the first research to demonstrate that playing a musical instrument significantly enhances the brain's sensitivity to speech sounds. The 16 highly trained musicians tested were better than 15 non-musicians at picking out key elements of speech from background noise.
‘Playing an instrument may help youngsters process speech in noisy classrooms better and more accurately interpret the nuances of language that are conveyed by subtle changes in the human voice,' Prof Klaus told the American Association for the Advancement of Science in San Diego, California.
‘Playing music engages the ability to extract relevant patterns, such as the sound of one's own instrument, harmonies and rhythms, from the "soundscape",' said Prof Kraus. ‘Not surprisingly, musicians' nervous systems are more effective at utilising the patterns in music and speech alike.’
Other studies in children and adults over the years have found that merely listening to music doesn't have as much impact on the brain as making music, but there are still benefits. Several studies have shown that listening to music can help alleviate chronic pain and reduce the need for pain medication. Other research has documented that music can help lower blood pressure, heart rate and anxiety in heart-disease patients.
Question 1
Indicate whether the following sentences are true or false and write down which part of the text justifies your answer.
a) Kraus believes that music should play a major role in the school curriculum.
b) The results of this research were not clear.
c) Learning to play an instrument could benefit students with learning difficulties.
d) Professor Klaus is the Director of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
Question 2
Answer the following questions in your own words.
a) What skills do musicians develop which appear to help them with learning languages?
b) How have other studies shown that listening to music can be beneficial for health?
Answer the following questions in your own words.
a) What skills do musicians develop which appear to help them with learning languages?
b) How have other studies shown that listening to music can be beneficial for health?
Question 3
Find words or phrases in the text that correspond in meaning to the words and definitions given.
a) important or successful (Paragraph 1)
b) proof (Paragraph 2)
c) transmit (Paragraph 3)
Question 4
Complete the following sentences without changing the meaning.
a) Learning to play an instrument has major advantages for a growing brain and should be a key part of school education, says neuroscientist Professor Nina Kraus.
Professor Klaus claimed that learning …………………….…….. school education.
b) Playing an instrument may help youngsters process speech in noisy classrooms better and more accurately interpret the nuances of language that are conveyed by subtle changes in the human voice.
If youngsters play an instrument, this may help ………..
c) Other studies in children and adults have found that merely listening to music doesn't have as much impact on the brain as making music, but there are still benefits.
Although other studies …………………………………………..
Question 5
Write a short essay (120-150 words) on the following topic:
How important do you think music is?
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Abbey Road studios become listed building
Abbey Road studios become listed building
Abbey Road studios have been granted Grade II listed status following a public outcry over plans to sell the world's most famous recording venue. The 1830s villa situated in north-west London was purchased by the Gramophone Company - later EMI - in 1930 and turned into studios.
The Government fast-tracked the application in response to reports that EMI was seeking a potential buyer in order to reduce the company's £2.6bn debt. Listed status was granted "overwhelmingly on the historic merit of the studios", the Government said, and should secure the future of the building as a music venue.
While changes to the interior are not prohibited, the grade II listing means that "care must be taken to ensure that any alterations with respect to its character and interest are fully considered". Any efforts to turn the building into residential apartments would be rejected, although plans to open a museum there would be considered.
Margaret Hodge, the Culture Minister, said: "Music - of whichever genre - is the thread that follows us through all our lives and Abbey Road Studios have produced some of the very best music in the world. It is a testament to both the importance of music in people's lives as well as the passion this kind of issue stirs up.
The Beatles, Michael Jackson, Pink Floyd and Sir Edward Elgar are among the artists who have recorded there.
At the weekend, EMI backed away from the sell-off plans and said it was in discussions with potential investors about a "revitalisation" of the studios. A "Save Abbey Road" campaign has won the public support of Sir Paul McCartney, while Lord Lloyd-Webber expressed an interest in buying the venue.
English Heritage recommended the building for listed status in 2003, and welcomed the Government's announcement. Simon Thurley, its chief executive, said: "Some of the most defining sounds of the 20th century were created within the walls of the Abbey Road studios”.
Question 1 Indicate whether these sentences are true or false. Justify your answers with evidence from the text:
a) There’s been a national protest against selling the studios.
b) The final part of the process to list the building has been really slow.
c) One of the projects is to create an exhibition on the premises.
d) EMI has reconsidered their idea to sell the building
Question 2 Answer these questions in your own words:
a) Why did the Government stop the selling of the studios?
b) What effects does Grade II have on the building?
Question 3 Find a word or phrase in the text that means the same as:
a) Setting (par.2)
b) Provoke (par.4)
c) Likely, possible (par.6)
Question 4 Rewrite the following sentences without changing the meaning
a) English Heritage recommended the building for listed status in 2003, that’s why they welcomed the announcement.
If the building…
b) Abbey Road Studios have produced some of the very best music in the world. It is a testament to the importance of music in people's lives.
Abbey Road Studios…
c) The villa had been purchased by the Gramophone Company in 1930 and it was turned into studios.
The Gramophone Company…
Question 5 Write a short essay (120-150 words) on the following topic:
Have you ever visited any historic buildings? Write about your experience.
Self-Access Group. CEP Santander
The Government fast-tracked the application in response to reports that EMI was seeking a potential buyer in order to reduce the company's £2.6bn debt. Listed status was granted "overwhelmingly on the historic merit of the studios", the Government said, and should secure the future of the building as a music venue.
While changes to the interior are not prohibited, the grade II listing means that "care must be taken to ensure that any alterations with respect to its character and interest are fully considered". Any efforts to turn the building into residential apartments would be rejected, although plans to open a museum there would be considered.
Margaret Hodge, the Culture Minister, said: "Music - of whichever genre - is the thread that follows us through all our lives and Abbey Road Studios have produced some of the very best music in the world. It is a testament to both the importance of music in people's lives as well as the passion this kind of issue stirs up.
The Beatles, Michael Jackson, Pink Floyd and Sir Edward Elgar are among the artists who have recorded there.
At the weekend, EMI backed away from the sell-off plans and said it was in discussions with potential investors about a "revitalisation" of the studios. A "Save Abbey Road" campaign has won the public support of Sir Paul McCartney, while Lord Lloyd-Webber expressed an interest in buying the venue.
English Heritage recommended the building for listed status in 2003, and welcomed the Government's announcement. Simon Thurley, its chief executive, said: "Some of the most defining sounds of the 20th century were created within the walls of the Abbey Road studios”.
Question 1 Indicate whether these sentences are true or false. Justify your answers with evidence from the text:
a) There’s been a national protest against selling the studios.
b) The final part of the process to list the building has been really slow.
c) One of the projects is to create an exhibition on the premises.
d) EMI has reconsidered their idea to sell the building
Question 2 Answer these questions in your own words:
a) Why did the Government stop the selling of the studios?
b) What effects does Grade II have on the building?
Question 3 Find a word or phrase in the text that means the same as:
a) Setting (par.2)
b) Provoke (par.4)
c) Likely, possible (par.6)
Question 4 Rewrite the following sentences without changing the meaning
a) English Heritage recommended the building for listed status in 2003, that’s why they welcomed the announcement.
If the building…
b) Abbey Road Studios have produced some of the very best music in the world. It is a testament to the importance of music in people's lives.
Abbey Road Studios…
c) The villa had been purchased by the Gramophone Company in 1930 and it was turned into studios.
The Gramophone Company…
Question 5 Write a short essay (120-150 words) on the following topic:
Have you ever visited any historic buildings? Write about your experience.
Self-Access Group. CEP Santander
Abbey Road studios become listed building
Abbey Road studios become listed building
Abbey Road studios have been granted Grade II listed status following a public outcry over plans to sell the world's most famous recording venue. The 1830s villa situated in north-west London was purchased by the Gramophone Company - later EMI - in 1930 and turned into studios.
The Government fast-tracked the application in response to reports that EMI was seeking a potential buyer in order to reduce the company's £2.6bn debt. Listed status was granted "overwhelmingly on the historic merit of the studios", the Government said, and should secure the future of the building as a music venue.
While changes to the interior are not prohibited, the grade II listing means that "care must be taken to ensure that any alterations with respect to its character and interest are fully considered". Any efforts to turn the building into residential apartments would be rejected, although plans to open a museum there would be considered.
Margaret Hodge, the Culture Minister, said: "Music - of whichever genre - is the thread that follows us through all our lives and Abbey Road Studios have produced some of the very best music in the world. It is a testament to both the importance of music in people's lives as well as the passion this kind of issue stirs up.
The Beatles, Michael Jackson, Pink Floyd and Sir Edward Elgar are among the artists who have recorded there.
At the weekend, EMI backed away from the sell-off plans and said it was in discussions with potential investors about a "revitalisation" of the studios. A "Save Abbey Road" campaign has won the public support of Sir Paul McCartney, while Lord Lloyd-Webber expressed an interest in buying the venue.
English Heritage recommended the building for listed status in 2003, and welcomed the Government's announcement. Simon Thurley, its chief executive, said: "Some of the most defining sounds of the 20th century were created within the walls of the Abbey Road studios”.
Question 1 Indicate whether these sentences are true or false. Justify your answers with evidence from the text:
a) There’s been a national protest against selling the studios.
b) The final part of the process to list the building has been really slow.
c) One of the projects is to create an exhibition on the premises.
d) EMI has reconsidered their idea to sell the building
Question 2 Answer these questions in your own words:
a) Why did the Government stop the selling of the studios?
b) What effects does Grade II have on the building?
Question 3 Find a word or phrase in the text that means the same as:
a) Setting (par.2)
b) Provoke (par.4)
c) Likely, possible (par.6)
Question 4 Rewrite the following sentences without changing the meaning
a) English Heritage recommended the building for listed status in 2003, that’s why they welcomed the announcement.
If the building…
b) Abbey Road Studios have produced some of the very best music in the world. It is a testament to the importance of music in people's lives.
Abbey Road Studios…
c) The villa had been purchased by the Gramophone Company in 1930 and it was turned into studios.
The Gramophone Company…
Question 5 Write a short essay (120-150 words) on the following topic:
Have you ever visited any historic buildings? Write about your experience.
Self-Access Group. CEP Santander
The Government fast-tracked the application in response to reports that EMI was seeking a potential buyer in order to reduce the company's £2.6bn debt. Listed status was granted "overwhelmingly on the historic merit of the studios", the Government said, and should secure the future of the building as a music venue.
While changes to the interior are not prohibited, the grade II listing means that "care must be taken to ensure that any alterations with respect to its character and interest are fully considered". Any efforts to turn the building into residential apartments would be rejected, although plans to open a museum there would be considered.
Margaret Hodge, the Culture Minister, said: "Music - of whichever genre - is the thread that follows us through all our lives and Abbey Road Studios have produced some of the very best music in the world. It is a testament to both the importance of music in people's lives as well as the passion this kind of issue stirs up.
The Beatles, Michael Jackson, Pink Floyd and Sir Edward Elgar are among the artists who have recorded there.
At the weekend, EMI backed away from the sell-off plans and said it was in discussions with potential investors about a "revitalisation" of the studios. A "Save Abbey Road" campaign has won the public support of Sir Paul McCartney, while Lord Lloyd-Webber expressed an interest in buying the venue.
English Heritage recommended the building for listed status in 2003, and welcomed the Government's announcement. Simon Thurley, its chief executive, said: "Some of the most defining sounds of the 20th century were created within the walls of the Abbey Road studios”.
Question 1 Indicate whether these sentences are true or false. Justify your answers with evidence from the text:
a) There’s been a national protest against selling the studios.
b) The final part of the process to list the building has been really slow.
c) One of the projects is to create an exhibition on the premises.
d) EMI has reconsidered their idea to sell the building
Question 2 Answer these questions in your own words:
a) Why did the Government stop the selling of the studios?
b) What effects does Grade II have on the building?
Question 3 Find a word or phrase in the text that means the same as:
a) Setting (par.2)
b) Provoke (par.4)
c) Likely, possible (par.6)
Question 4 Rewrite the following sentences without changing the meaning
a) English Heritage recommended the building for listed status in 2003, that’s why they welcomed the announcement.
If the building…
b) Abbey Road Studios have produced some of the very best music in the world. It is a testament to the importance of music in people's lives.
Abbey Road Studios…
c) The villa had been purchased by the Gramophone Company in 1930 and it was turned into studios.
The Gramophone Company…
Question 5 Write a short essay (120-150 words) on the following topic:
Have you ever visited any historic buildings? Write about your experience.
Self-Access Group. CEP Santander
Thursday, February 18, 2010
You are what you listen to
You are what you listen to
The study found that we make assumptions about someone’s personality, values, social class and ethnicity based on their musical preferences.
Classical buffs are seen as ugly and boring, while rock lovers are regarded as emotionally unstable and pop fans are considered to be rather dim.
Classical buffs are seen as ugly and boring, while rock lovers are regarded as emotionally unstable and pop fans are considered to be rather dim.
Perusing a person’s iPod playlist can “reinforce stereotypes and, potentially, social prejudices”, said Dr Jason Rentfrow, who led the research at the university’s Department of Social and Developmental Psychology. “This research suggests that, even though our assumptions may not be accurate, we get a very strong impression about someone when we ask them what music they like.”
Subjects in the study were asked to ponder six musical genres: rock, pop, classical, jazz, rap and electronica. Jazz fans elicited the most positive response as they were considered to be imaginative, peace-loving liberals with friendly and outgoing natures. Classical buffs are perceived as quiet, friendly, responsible and intelligent but also unathletic, physically unattractive and dull. Those with a preference for rock songs are deemed to be “natural rebels”, thoroughly irresponsible and emotionally unstable, while pop fans are seen as conventional and calm but lacking in intelligence and wisdom. Rap aficionados are viewed as athletic and self-respecting but disorganised and “more hostile” than other music fans. Lovers of electronica are “a bit neurotic”.
The research was carried out to mark the university’s 800th anniversary.
The research was carried out to mark the university’s 800th anniversary.
Question 1. Indicate whether these sentences are true or false. Justify your answers with evidence from the text.
a) According to the study, it is not clear that people have an opinion of us depending on the music we like.
b) People who like classical music do not seem to be very attractive.
c) The study was carried out by the Music Department in Cambridge University.
d) Apparently rock fans adapt to social rules easily.
Question 2. Answer the following questions in your own words.
a) According to the study, what does the music we like tell other people about us?
b) What may be some bad consequences of knowing people’s musical preferences?
Question 3. Find a word or a phrase in the text that means the same as
a) to display (par.1) b) correct (par.4) c) to produce (par.5)
Question 4. Rewrite the following sentences without changing the meaning
a) “This research suggests that we get a strong impression about someone when we ask them what music they like.”
Dr. Jason said that ___________________________________________________
b) Subjects in the study were asked to ponder six musical genres.
They _____________________________________________________________
c) They consider him disorganized and hostile because he likes rap.
If he ___________________________________________________________
Question 5. Write a short essay (120-150 words) on the following topic:
• Music makes the world go round. Do you agree?
You are what you listen to
You are what you listen to
The study found that we make assumptions about someone’s personality, values, social class and ethnicity based on their musical preferences.
Classical buffs are seen as ugly and boring, while rock lovers are regarded as emotionally unstable and pop fans are considered to be rather dim.
Classical buffs are seen as ugly and boring, while rock lovers are regarded as emotionally unstable and pop fans are considered to be rather dim.
Perusing a person’s iPod playlist can “reinforce stereotypes and, potentially, social prejudices”, said Dr Jason Rentfrow, who led the research at the university’s Department of Social and Developmental Psychology. “This research suggests that, even though our assumptions may not be accurate, we get a very strong impression about someone when we ask them what music they like.”
Subjects in the study were asked to ponder six musical genres: rock, pop, classical, jazz, rap and electronica. Jazz fans elicited the most positive response as they were considered to be imaginative, peace-loving liberals with friendly and outgoing natures. Classical buffs are perceived as quiet, friendly, responsible and intelligent but also unathletic, physically unattractive and dull. Those with a preference for rock songs are deemed to be “natural rebels”, thoroughly irresponsible and emotionally unstable, while pop fans are seen as conventional and calm but lacking in intelligence and wisdom. Rap aficionados are viewed as athletic and self-respecting but disorganised and “more hostile” than other music fans. Lovers of electronica are “a bit neurotic”.
The research was carried out to mark the university’s 800th anniversary.
The research was carried out to mark the university’s 800th anniversary.
Question 1. Indicate whether these sentences are true or false. Justify your answers with evidence from the text.
a) According to the study, it is not clear that people have an opinion of us depending on the music we like.
b) People who like classical music do not seem to be very attractive.
c) The study was carried out by the Music Department in Cambridge University.
d) Apparently rock fans adapt to social rules easily.
Question 2. Answer the following questions in your own words.
a) According to the study, what does the music we like tell other people about us?
b) What may be some bad consequences of knowing people’s musical preferences?
Question 3. Find a word or a phrase in the text that means the same as
a) to display (par.1) b) correct (par.4) c) to produce (par.5)
Question 4. Rewrite the following sentences without changing the meaning
a) “This research suggests that we get a strong impression about someone when we ask them what music they like.”
Dr. Jason said that ___________________________________________________
b) Subjects in the study were asked to ponder six musical genres.
They _____________________________________________________________
c) They consider him disorganized and hostile because he likes rap.
If he ___________________________________________________________
Question 5. Write a short essay (120-150 words) on the following topic:
• Music makes the world go round. Do you agree?
Misbehaving students punished with Mozart
A school in England is using classical music to cut down on students’ bad behaviour. The head teacher Brian Walker at the West Park School in Derby runs two-hour detention sessions after school on Fridays. He forces his students to listen to Mozart and other classical music. He also makes them copy his favourite poems and they have to watch educational videos. Mr. Walker says his main aim is to stop noisy pupils spoiling lessons for well-behaved students who want to study. He said the students staying behind are “not the smokers, the truants or the people who are late… It's those who have slowed the learning process in class for everyone”. Mr. Walker explained this was unacceptable “because it is robbing the rest of opportunities”.
Brian Walker believes the detention reminds students that education is something to value. "It helps them see they are part of something bigger that will enhance their life chances,” he said. The head teacher thinks students actually learn from being kept behind after school: "Hopefully, I open their ears to an experience they don't normally have and…don't want to have again, so it's both educational and acts as a deterrent." Music has had success elsewhere in reducing bad behaviour. In 2004, it reduced crime on London’s subway by 25 per cent. Researchers from a Belfast university found it helped stop elephants misbehaving. However, one West Park student called Kieran said: “An hour of Mr. Walker's music is a real killer.”
Question 1. Indicate whether these sentences are true or false. Justify your answers with evidence from the text.
A school in England is using classical music to cut down on students’ bad behaviour. The head teacher Brian Walker at the West Park School in Derby runs two-hour detention sessions after school on Fridays. He forces his students to listen to Mozart and other classical music. He also makes them copy his favourite poems and they have to watch educational videos. Mr. Walker says his main aim is to stop noisy pupils spoiling lessons for well-behaved students who want to study. He said the students staying behind are “not the smokers, the truants or the people who are late… It's those who have slowed the learning process in class for everyone”. Mr. Walker explained this was unacceptable “because it is robbing the rest of opportunities”.
Brian Walker believes the detention reminds students that education is something to value. "It helps them see they are part of something bigger that will enhance their life chances,” he said. The head teacher thinks students actually learn from being kept behind after school: "Hopefully, I open their ears to an experience they don't normally have and…don't want to have again, so it's both educational and acts as a deterrent." Music has had success elsewhere in reducing bad behaviour. In 2004, it reduced crime on London’s subway by 25 per cent. Researchers from a Belfast university found it helped stop elephants misbehaving. However, one West Park student called Kieran said: “An hour of Mr. Walker's music is a real killer.”
Question 1. Indicate whether these sentences are true or false. Justify your answers with evidence from the text.
a) A teacher forced students to write poetry and listen to classical music.
b) Students received detention for smoking and skipping classes.
c) The teacher said he wanted students to open their ears and eyes.
d) Music on London’s subway system cut crime by a quarter in 2004.
b) Students received detention for smoking and skipping classes.
c) The teacher said he wanted students to open their ears and eyes.
d) Music on London’s subway system cut crime by a quarter in 2004.
Question 2. Answer the following questions in your own words.
a) Why does Mr. Walker force the students to stay after school on Friday?
b) What kind of students “suffer” Mr. Walker’s measures?
b) What kind of students “suffer” Mr. Walker’s measures?
Question 3. Find a word or a phrase in the text that means the same as
a) reduce (Par 1) b) ruining (par.1) c) opportunities (par. 2)
Question 4. Rewrite the following sentences without changing the meaning
a) A school in England is using classical music to cut down on bad behaviour.
Classical music …………………………..
b) He forces his students to listen to Mozart.
He makes …………………………….
c) “It helps them see they are part of something bigger that will enhance their life chances.
Brian Walker said that …………………
Question 5. Write a short essay (120-150 words) on the following topic:
What do you think about school punishments?
1. Guess if a-h below are true (T) or false (F).
a. Mozart was a bad student at school and was punished a lot. T / F
b. A teacher forced students to write poetry and listen to classical music. T / F
c. Students received detention for smoking and skipping class. T / F
d. A head teacher was worried good students were losing studying time. T / F
e. The head teacher believes his method helps students value education. T / F
f. The teacher said he wanted students to open their ears and eyes. T / F
g. Music on London’s subway system cut crime by a quarter in 2004. T / F
h. One student said he really liked the music by the band The Killers. T / F
a. Mozart was a bad student at school and was punished a lot. T / F
b. A teacher forced students to write poetry and listen to classical music. T / F
c. Students received detention for smoking and skipping class. T / F
d. A head teacher was worried good students were losing studying time. T / F
e. The head teacher believes his method helps students value education. T / F
f. The teacher said he wanted students to open their ears and eyes. T / F
g. Music on London’s subway system cut crime by a quarter in 2004. T / F
h. One student said he really liked the music by the band The Killers. T / F
2. SYNONYM MATCH: Match the following synonyms from the article.
1. cut down on a. students
2 forces b. usually
3. pupils c. detained
4. spoiling d. chances
5. robbing e. reduce
6. enhance f. in other places
7. opportunities g. stealing from
8. kept behind h. makes
9. normally i. improve
10. elsewhere j. ruining
KEY
KEY
TRUE / FALSE:
a. F b. T c. F d. T e. T f. F g. T h. F
SYNONYM MATCH:
1. cut down on a. reduce
2 forces b. makes
3. pupils c. students
4. spoiling d. ruining
5. robbing e. stealing from
6. enhance f. improve
7. opportunities g. chances
8. kept behind h. detained
9. normally i. usually
10. elsewhere j. in other places
a. F b. T c. F d. T e. T f. F g. T h. F
SYNONYM MATCH:
1. cut down on a. reduce
2 forces b. makes
3. pupils c. students
4. spoiling d. ruining
5. robbing e. stealing from
6. enhance f. improve
7. opportunities g. chances
8. kept behind h. detained
9. normally i. usually
10. elsewhere j. in other places
Misbehaving students punished with Mozart
A school in England is using classical music to cut down on students’ bad behaviour. The head teacher Brian Walker at the West Park School in Derby runs two-hour detention sessions after school on Fridays. He forces his students to listen to Mozart and other classical music. He also makes them copy his favourite poems and they have to watch educational videos. Mr. Walker says his main aim is to stop noisy pupils spoiling lessons for well-behaved students who want to study. He said the students staying behind are “not the smokers, the truants or the people who are late… It's those who have slowed the learning process in class for everyone”. Mr. Walker explained this was unacceptable “because it is robbing the rest of opportunities”.
Brian Walker believes the detention reminds students that education is something to value. "It helps them see they are part of something bigger that will enhance their life chances,” he said. The head teacher thinks students actually learn from being kept behind after school: "Hopefully, I open their ears to an experience they don't normally have and…don't want to have again, so it's both educational and acts as a deterrent." Music has had success elsewhere in reducing bad behaviour. In 2004, it reduced crime on London’s subway by 25 per cent. Researchers from a Belfast university found it helped stop elephants misbehaving. However, one West Park student called Kieran said: “An hour of Mr. Walker's music is a real killer.”
Question 1. Indicate whether these sentences are true or false. Justify your answers with evidence from the text.
A school in England is using classical music to cut down on students’ bad behaviour. The head teacher Brian Walker at the West Park School in Derby runs two-hour detention sessions after school on Fridays. He forces his students to listen to Mozart and other classical music. He also makes them copy his favourite poems and they have to watch educational videos. Mr. Walker says his main aim is to stop noisy pupils spoiling lessons for well-behaved students who want to study. He said the students staying behind are “not the smokers, the truants or the people who are late… It's those who have slowed the learning process in class for everyone”. Mr. Walker explained this was unacceptable “because it is robbing the rest of opportunities”.
Brian Walker believes the detention reminds students that education is something to value. "It helps them see they are part of something bigger that will enhance their life chances,” he said. The head teacher thinks students actually learn from being kept behind after school: "Hopefully, I open their ears to an experience they don't normally have and…don't want to have again, so it's both educational and acts as a deterrent." Music has had success elsewhere in reducing bad behaviour. In 2004, it reduced crime on London’s subway by 25 per cent. Researchers from a Belfast university found it helped stop elephants misbehaving. However, one West Park student called Kieran said: “An hour of Mr. Walker's music is a real killer.”
Question 1. Indicate whether these sentences are true or false. Justify your answers with evidence from the text.
a) A teacher forced students to write poetry and listen to classical music.
b) Students received detention for smoking and skipping classes.
c) The teacher said he wanted students to open their ears and eyes.
d) Music on London’s subway system cut crime by a quarter in 2004.
b) Students received detention for smoking and skipping classes.
c) The teacher said he wanted students to open their ears and eyes.
d) Music on London’s subway system cut crime by a quarter in 2004.
Question 2. Answer the following questions in your own words.
a) Why does Mr. Walker force the students to stay after school on Friday?
b) What kind of students “suffer” Mr. Walker’s measures?
b) What kind of students “suffer” Mr. Walker’s measures?
Question 3. Find a word or a phrase in the text that means the same as
a) reduce (Par 1) b) ruining (par.1) c) opportunities (par. 2)
Question 4. Rewrite the following sentences without changing the meaning
a) A school in England is using classical music to cut down on bad behaviour.
Classical music …………………………..
b) He forces his students to listen to Mozart.
He makes …………………………….
c) “It helps them see they are part of something bigger that will enhance their life chances.
Brian Walker said that …………………
Question 5. Write a short essay (120-150 words) on the following topic:
What do you think about school punishments?
1. Guess if a-h below are true (T) or false (F).
a. Mozart was a bad student at school and was punished a lot. T / F
b. A teacher forced students to write poetry and listen to classical music. T / F
c. Students received detention for smoking and skipping class. T / F
d. A head teacher was worried good students were losing studying time. T / F
e. The head teacher believes his method helps students value education. T / F
f. The teacher said he wanted students to open their ears and eyes. T / F
g. Music on London’s subway system cut crime by a quarter in 2004. T / F
h. One student said he really liked the music by the band The Killers. T / F
a. Mozart was a bad student at school and was punished a lot. T / F
b. A teacher forced students to write poetry and listen to classical music. T / F
c. Students received detention for smoking and skipping class. T / F
d. A head teacher was worried good students were losing studying time. T / F
e. The head teacher believes his method helps students value education. T / F
f. The teacher said he wanted students to open their ears and eyes. T / F
g. Music on London’s subway system cut crime by a quarter in 2004. T / F
h. One student said he really liked the music by the band The Killers. T / F
2. SYNONYM MATCH: Match the following synonyms from the article.
1. cut down on a. students
2 forces b. usually
3. pupils c. detained
4. spoiling d. chances
5. robbing e. reduce
6. enhance f. in other places
7. opportunities g. stealing from
8. kept behind h. makes
9. normally i. improve
10. elsewhere j. ruining
KEY
KEY
TRUE / FALSE:
a. F b. T c. F d. T e. T f. F g. T h. F
SYNONYM MATCH:
1. cut down on a. reduce
2 forces b. makes
3. pupils c. students
4. spoiling d. ruining
5. robbing e. stealing from
6. enhance f. improve
7. opportunities g. chances
8. kept behind h. detained
9. normally i. usually
10. elsewhere j. in other places
a. F b. T c. F d. T e. T f. F g. T h. F
SYNONYM MATCH:
1. cut down on a. reduce
2 forces b. makes
3. pupils c. students
4. spoiling d. ruining
5. robbing e. stealing from
6. enhance f. improve
7. opportunities g. chances
8. kept behind h. detained
9. normally i. usually
10. elsewhere j. in other places
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
The Beatles
The Beatles
The Beatles were one of the most influential music groups of the rock era, and many consider them the best musical group on Earth. Initially they affected the post-war baby boom generation of Britain and the U.S. during the 1960s, and later the rest of the world. Certainly they were the most successful group, with global sales exceeding 1.1 billion records.
While they were originally famous for light-weight pop music (and the extreme hysterical reaction they received from young women), their later works achieved a combination of popular and critical acclaim perhaps unequaled in the 20th century.
Eventually, they became more than recording artists, branching out into film and — particularly in the case of John Lennon — political activism. They achieved an iconic status beyond mere celebrity, with far reaching effects difficult to exaggerate.
The members of the group were John Lennon, (James) Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr (Richard Starkey), all from Liverpool, Merseyside, England. Original drummer Pete Best was asked to leave the group just before it started recording. Stuart Sutcliffe was with them in Hamburg but also left.
Beatlemania began in the UK and exploded following the appearance of the Beatles on The Ed Sullivan Show in the United States, on February 9, 1964. The pop-music band became a worldwide phenomenon with worshipful fans, hysterical adulation, and denunciations by culture commentators and others such as Frank Sinatra.
Some of this was confusion over the sources of their music (a similar confusion was evinced in 1956 over Elvis Presley by commentators who were unaware of the tradition of blues, R&B and gospel out of which Presley emerged), and some of it was simply an incredulous reaction to the length of their hair. At any rate, it was regarded by the band members with both awe and resentment
Answer the questions about the text.
1. They were the best selling group in history.
a) True b) False c) don’t know
2. All the members were from Liverpool.
a) True b) False c) don’t know
3. They appeared on TV on February 9, 1964.
a) True b) False c) don’t know
4. There was some confusion about the sources of their music.
a) True b) False c) don’t know
5. Their music was copied by Elvis Presley.
a) True b) False c) don’t know
6. Frank Sinatra didn't like the Beatles too much.
a) True b) False c) don’t know
KEY
1.- True
2.- True
3.- True
4.- True
5.- False
6.- True
The Beatles were one of the most influential music groups of the rock era, and many consider them the best musical group on Earth. Initially they affected the post-war baby boom generation of Britain and the U.S. during the 1960s, and later the rest of the world. Certainly they were the most successful group, with global sales exceeding 1.1 billion records.
While they were originally famous for light-weight pop music (and the extreme hysterical reaction they received from young women), their later works achieved a combination of popular and critical acclaim perhaps unequaled in the 20th century.
Eventually, they became more than recording artists, branching out into film and — particularly in the case of John Lennon — political activism. They achieved an iconic status beyond mere celebrity, with far reaching effects difficult to exaggerate.
The members of the group were John Lennon, (James) Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr (Richard Starkey), all from Liverpool, Merseyside, England. Original drummer Pete Best was asked to leave the group just before it started recording. Stuart Sutcliffe was with them in Hamburg but also left.
Beatlemania began in the UK and exploded following the appearance of the Beatles on The Ed Sullivan Show in the United States, on February 9, 1964. The pop-music band became a worldwide phenomenon with worshipful fans, hysterical adulation, and denunciations by culture commentators and others such as Frank Sinatra.
Some of this was confusion over the sources of their music (a similar confusion was evinced in 1956 over Elvis Presley by commentators who were unaware of the tradition of blues, R&B and gospel out of which Presley emerged), and some of it was simply an incredulous reaction to the length of their hair. At any rate, it was regarded by the band members with both awe and resentment
Answer the questions about the text.
1. They were the best selling group in history.
a) True b) False c) don’t know
2. All the members were from Liverpool.
a) True b) False c) don’t know
3. They appeared on TV on February 9, 1964.
a) True b) False c) don’t know
4. There was some confusion about the sources of their music.
a) True b) False c) don’t know
5. Their music was copied by Elvis Presley.
a) True b) False c) don’t know
6. Frank Sinatra didn't like the Beatles too much.
a) True b) False c) don’t know
KEY
1.- True
2.- True
3.- True
4.- True
5.- False
6.- True
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