Week1 - Forum: And that was the week1 that was ...

After a week of info overload, sheets of paper being thrust at me, rules, bike shed keys, locker receipts, familiarising myself with the surroundings, the libraries, student card obtaining and organising a folder that would make some sense for at least the coming year, it was a relief to sit in the cool and quiet atmosphere of EMU's ample teaching/performance/discussion/main recording space and not have to think too much, anticipating the three days I was about to have off to get my head around everything and start on some actual study. Phew!

The informal atmosphere and lack of any vital information (again, phew) in the last part of the session gave us a chance say more than a few words to each other. In week 2, I have felt more familiar and at ease with the place and the people as a result of the first week and the Thursday forum.

Presentation - Collaborations. Well, where to start? Good question. I was drawn to Frank Zappa's making of the Dub Room Special; a video that was made by himself, and has interviews with his professional technical crew who think he's nuts for trying to do what he is doing with both audio and video equipment. But information on the making of this video, apart from the video itself, could prove tricky to dig up. I'll give it a go. I look forward to seeing and hearing what people come up with. For a taste of Zappa and a little of the animation, try this link:

http://www.zappa.com/thedubroom2/

I thought the informal atmosphere of open discussion at forum was a great way to end a hectic week. The details of study areas look great and the way the course has been designed and structured, with each course component supporting the others, is excellent (also in my humble opinion, or maybe it just suits the things I'm into). Whatever the case, I look forward to a fascinating and creative year ahead.