Great blend of language music and art.
The Song by King Crimson titled The Night Watch (click and listen HERE)
It is inspired by Rembrandt's painting of the same title (click and see HERE)
The lyrics of the songs narrates the painting (click and read HERE)
The song may seem a bit difficult for interpretation. It is challenging but with advanced students you can create very inspirational lesson. The song is almost like a poem, you can analyse it verse by verse.
Remember also to set the background: this song talks of a painting of 17th century Dutch society. It shows us the
prosperity they now enjoy after their struggle for independence from
Spain has ended. This period is called the Dutch Golden Age.
You should also point out that the actual painting which is now in the Rijksmuseum in
Amsterdam is massive. Its colossal size is 363 x 437 cm (11 ft 10in x 14 ft 4in). You can ask your students to what extent does the music express its greatness.
There is also a great BBC documentary series by Simon Schama about the power of Rembrandt's art.
You can watch it HERE.
More about Simon Schama's Power Of Art HERE.
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