This assignment was incredibly interesting. Discovering the existence of the Voyager Golden Records for me personally, was fascinating. The idea of sending a message from Earth out into the cosmos, intended for any potential extraterrestrial life, is both amazing and inspiring. It must have been a monumental task for Carl Sagan and the team to curate the content, meticulously selecting sounds and images that represent the diversity and essence of our planet. Reflecting on their effort, I can’t help but think about the choices they made and how I might have selected differently. If I were to choose only ten songs for the final draft, I would prioritize a broad spectrum of compositions, ensuring a wide range of representation from various cultures and musicians. This would highlight the rich artistry of human creativity and our peaceful intentions for whoever discovers the capsule. While I wouldn’t want to intimidate any extraterrestrial being, I would also love to demonstrate some of our powerful pieces in which shows our strength and the passion of a human being. The Voyager Golden Records stand as a testament to our desire to connect and share our story with the universe, symbolizing hope and curiosity. Definitely one of the assignments that I won’t forget.
My Top 10:
1. #6: Mexico, “El Cascabel,” performed by Lorenzo Barcelata and the Mariachi México. 3:14
Listening to this track, I feel that this fast-paced melody embodies passion, love, excitement and movement. I want to get up and dance when this sone hits and I feel it is critical to include this one in my top 10.
2. #7: “Johnny B. Goode,” written and performed by Chuck Berry. 2:38
Never mind the Golden Records, this is one of my favourite songs in general. Perfect to tap your foot to and smile while your frequency sparks with this classic number. Besides, anyone who finds these records needs to hear some iconic rock and roll.
3. #8: New Guinea, “Men’s House Song,” recorded by Robert MacLennan. 1:20
This song provides a very valuable perspective on our musical expression highlighting rich culture, different styles and a non-threatening and harmonious quality. I feel it represents a peaceful way about it when listening.
4. #9: Japan, shakuhachi, “Tsuru No Sugomori” (“Crane’s Nest,”) performed by Goro Yamaguchi. 4:51
As this might be the most relaxing number in the entire collection I feel that this track should absolutely be included in the medley. The fact that music like Yamaguchi’s number can evoke that feeling is truly worth it being on the final list.
5. #11: Munich, “The Magic Flute, Queen of the Night aria,” no. 14. Edda Moser, soprano. Composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. 2:55
I feel that Mozart, merely based on the fact that he is one of the most famous composers in history, should be able to showcase the intensity and storytelling to whoever may find this capsule. It will definitely be able to take someone on a thrilling ride demonstrating the capabilities of human creativity and heart.
6. #13: Peru, “Panpipes and Drum”, collected by Casa de la Cultura, Lima. 0:52
I feel that the panpipes and drum was also a fine piece of cultural representation and a different type of feel of music compared to the rest of the album’s music. It also showcases different types of sounds that can be seen as very uplifting and beautiful.
7. #14: “Melancholy Blues,” performed by Louis Armstrong and his Hot Seven. 3:05
I am a fairly big fan of the blues and feel that, like some other artists on this list, Louis Armstrong is a perfect addition of variety to the tracks. It’s a laid back vibe that showcases the desire for emotion in music from human beings.
8. #18: The Philharmonia Orchestra, “Fifth Symphony, First Movement” composed by Ludwig van Beethoven. 7:20
This sone might be the most iconic pieces on the list. Made by a human being that has created many recognizable compositions, I feel that his contribution to music should most definitely be included in the top 10. It also displays a fierce and intense range of classical music with an opening that is most likely recognized by anyone on earth.
9. #21: Holborne, Paueans, Galliards, Almains and Other Short Aeirs, “The Fairie Round,” performed by David Munrow and the Early Music Consort of London. 1:17
This number is very inspiring and represents the wonderful creativity and talents of children and human beings on this planet. It very much fits so well with the recording by Nick Sagan and I feel that whoever discovers it would be pleasantly surprised.
10. #26: “Dark Was the Night,” written and performed by Blind Willie Johnson. 3:15
I actually had no idea that this number, along with the rest of them actually, was included on this list as it’s one of my dad’s favourite musicians. Even mentioned in the Twenty Thousand Hertz podcast as a favourite, I can remember Johnson’s blues playing through my house in the summer time and it brings great comfort and soul to me when I listen. The guitar technique is unique and classic and has a ton of influence on artists after blind Willie.
Reference
Taylor, D. (Host). (2016-present). Voyager Golden Record [Audio podcast episode]. Twenty Thousand Hertz. https://www.20k.org/episodes/voyagergoldenrecord?rq=golden%20record