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Berklee College of Music
DAVE SHIVAT:
TRANCENDENCE, THE EMERGENCE OF AN ARTISTIC IDENTITY
Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the
Degree of Master in Music Production, Technology and Innovation
Supervisor: Ben. Cantil
By David Andrés Chivatá Duque
Valencia Campus, Spain
July 2019
Table of Contents
Abstract
iii
Acknowledgements
iv
1. Introduction
1
2. Review of The State of Art
2
2.1 Electronic Dance Music
2
2.2 Contemporary Christian Music
3
2.3 Trance Electronic Music
4
2.4 Christian Electronic Dance Music
4
3. Description
4
3.1 Trance Electronic Christian Music
5
3.2 Implemented Technology
7
4. Innovative Aspect
12
5. New Skills Acquired
13
5.1 Technology and Software
13
5.2 Soft Skills
13
6. Challenges
14
7. Future Plans
14
8. Conclusion
15
Appendix A. Time of Action and Projected Time Line
16
Appendix B. Budget and Cost
17
Bibliography
18
ii
Abstract
The basis of this project was to create the emergence of an artistic identity. The idea consisted on
inventing a creative persona that throughout a look, a sound, and a concept incorporated
Contemporary Christian music within Trance (Electronic Dance Music) as an EP of 5 songs and one
remix. Essential resources needed for the completion of this project came from people contributions
and the facilities provided by Berklee College of Music in Valencia, Spain. The overall purpose of
this project was to represent the world of Christianity through the language of Trance. Current
generations, as well as the emerging ones not only will connect to this music genre, but also will
relate better to the world of spirituality.
Keywords: artistic identity, contemporary Christian music, remix, trance electronic music.
iii
Acknowledgements
I am blessed for being able to embark on this journey. Back Home, I was often being told
that pursuing this musical dream was almost impossible. I knew this would not be an easy adventure
and career to follow, but I had spent six years collecting all my talents, experiences, and education
to make this dream come true. I would like to first thank Dr. Soo Wincci for her indispensable
guidance and support in this entire journey, Ben Cantil for his incredible motivation, Nacho Marco
for his well-directed advice, Diego Amorocho for his honest, sincere and trustworthy friendship and
not to forget those who never gave up on me and encouraged me to continue to pursue my dream
without fear.
After graduating from my Bachelor of Science Degree, I finally took up my courage to apply
to my dream school which is Berklee. I am grateful to be accepted to MPTI. I left everything back
home and came to Valencia. Thankfully, my parents and my true friends had helped me in various
ways in supporting my dream. They gave me so much encouragement and financial support
throughout the whole journey and we grew stronger than before and sailed through the storm
together.
Lastly, I want to give all honor and glory to God for providing me the strength to overcome
all obstacles along this transforming journey.
iv
1. Introduction
In the late 1960s, Christian music had massive influence to the world with the various
circulation images of church, hymnals, and organs. “Traditional” was the word of the past, but this
had evolved. In the last thirty years, Christian music had been evolving and growing in an
unprecedented speed. 1
Pipe organs have been set aside for the substitution of electric guitars and drums. Hymnals
have been replaced by hard-hitting lyrics which illustrate the scene nowadays and God is being
portrayed in a modern way. Christian music had evolved further beyond the church and can be found
invincibly on radio, TV, concert halls and at huge rallies and festivals. It had expanded to include a
vast array of styles like rock, metal, rap, country, gospel, urban gospel and pop which Christian can
definitely find something which interest them.2
Hence, the main objective of this research is to illustrate the evolution of the artist brand of
“Dave Shivat” which includes the process of integrating both musical styles of Trance Electronic
Music and Christian Music to reinvent his music artistry.
1
Jones, Kim. "The Changing Face of Christian Music." Learn Religions. June 25, 2019. Accessed July 03,
2019. https://www.learnreligions.com/the-changing-face-of-christian-music-710628.
2
"Entertainment." Learn Religions. Accessed July 03, 2019. https://www.learnreligions.com/christianityentertainment-4684883.
1
2. Review of The State of Art
2.1
Electronic Dance Music
Electronic Dance Music, which is also known as EDM, refers to the term for a panoply of
musical styles that emerged in the mid-1980s. 3 Rather than designating a single genre, electronic
dance music (EDM) encompasses styles ranging from beatless ambient music to 200 beats per
minute hardcore with house music, techno, drum and bass, dubstep and trance are among the most
notable examples.
Several defining features which characterize electronic dance music includes its recognition
for delivering inorganic sounds and timbres, frequently produced by cheap early-1980s gear such as
the 303-bass synthesizer and the 808-drum machine and both made by Japanese electronics firm
Roland or built from samples of previous recordings.4 Live instrumentation and singing were often
featured but it was usually used as a garnish rather than the main dish. Most importantly, this type
of music was created specifically for the social function of dancing all night.
A strong emphasis on rhythm is therefore common to most styles of EDM, while ambience
music which focuses less on maintaining the beat provides an aural cushion for settling down at the
end of the night. Furthermore, EDM recordings are produced primarily to be played in dance clubs
by disc jockeys (DJs) with a mix of other records of the same type rather than catering it to home
listeners.
3
Matos, Michaelangelo. "Electronic Dance Music." Encyclopedia Britannica. November 23, 2016. Accessed July 03,
2019. https://www.britannica.com/art/electronic-dance-music.
4
Romero, Jorge. "¿Qué Es El EDM?" LOS40. February 01, 2019. Accessed July 03, 2019.
https://los40.com/los40/2019/02/01/actualidad/1548979340_136795.html.
2
2.2
Contemporary Christian Music
Contemporary Christian Music 5 is a genre of modern popular music which focuses its lyrics
on matters concerned with the Christian Faith. The Contemporary Christian Music industry had
grown over the years. Album sales had increased from 31 million in 1996 to 44 million sales in 2000.
The church initially dismissed the growing popularity of “Rock N 'Roll” music in the 1950s
because it was believed to encourage sinfulness. As evangelical churches adapted to be more
appealing to the mass, the musical styles used in worship changed as well by adopting the sounds of
this popular style. 6
The "Jesus Movement" of the 1970's was when things really started changing and Christian
music began to become an industry within itself. Some of the pioneers of the times were:
•
Larry Norman - A true pioneer in Christian alternative rock since the 1960's, he is called
the "father of Christian rock" by many.
•
Marsha Stevens - The leader of Children of the Day is called the "mother of contemporary
Christian music" by The Encyclopedia of Contemporary Christian Music.
•
Nancy Honeytree - Nancy carries the nickname the "First Lady of Jesus Music", she was
one of the few female artists to emerge from the Jesus Movement.
•
Chuck Girard - He was one of the first Contemporary Christian artists, getting his start in a
church in California.
5
BiblioCommons. (2018). Grammy Winners for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album 1997-2018 - Santa Clara
County Library.
6
"Origins and Development." Learn Religions. Accessed July 03, 2019. https://www.learnreligions.com/christianityorigins-4684896.
3
2.3
Trance Electronic Music
Trance music 7 is a form of electronic dance music (EDM) characterized by hypnotic rhythm
and sound with the aim of helping the audience to reach a heightened consciousness. It is known for
having a song tempo generally ranging between 128 to 142 beats per minute (BPM). Trance has its
origins in musical genres such as House, Techno, Pop, classical music, film score, and ambient music.
2.4
Christian Electronic Dance Music
Christian Electronic Dance Music 8 otherwise known as CEDM is a genre within Christian
music. Mostly said that producers just create Christian dubstep and Christian electronic, there are
now many other forms of CEDM including deep house, techno, trance and much more.
Some of CEDM’s most notable artists include Hillsong Young & Free, Neon Feathers, Kye
Kye, LZ7, Owl City, Capital Kings, And Then There Were None, Scott Blackwell, The Brothers
Martin, Code of Ethics, Purified, Mortal, Mad at the World, Leiahdorus, Andy Hunter, Joy Electric,
V*Enna, Urban Rescue, Dash, Matthew J. Bentley, Biotronix, FreeG, Harmegiddo, Matthew Parker,
Audile, DJ Jireh, DJ Hiz Glory, G-Powered and Salt of the Sound.
3. Description
Trancendence is a project with a purpose to evoke a sense of existence or experience beyond
the ordinary or physical level. Trancendence is a project that involves the creation of a five-song Ep
7
En.wikipedia.org. (2018). Trance music.
Stevo. "CEDM: Discover New Christian Electronic Dance Music Songs." EDM Sauce. May 30, 2017. Accessed July
04, 2019. https://www.edmsauce.com/discover-new-music/cedm/.
8
4
and one remix from the song “Cut Away” by the artist “Soo Wincci”. In which, the personal artist
brand “Dave Shivat” transforms himself from being a recording engineer into a hybrid Latin
contemporary Christian electronic music producer. Subsequently, collaborating with artists from
various backgrounds and diversity has led this project to grow and expand within different
ramifications geographically. Therefore, the creation of the project has opened the doors for multi
languages such as English, Chinese, Malays and Spanish. Each part of the project will be further
explained in the next section.
3.1 Trance Electronic Christian Music
In 2018, Billboard
9
released a market statistic that proved the value and worth of the
electronic dance music market. In this statistical statement, the company showed a 12-percent
growth within one year which many changes took place within this musical revolution. Since then
EDM had been incorporated in various genres and subgenres.
It is clear that part of the success of EDM 10 is because these scenes are popping up all over
the world, pushing it to become the one of the furthest reached genres in contemporary music. In
support of this, the concept of this project has excellent potential to succeed, not only because of the
integration of two different genres into one but because it is compilating genres that are exponentially
growing over time. The inclusion of Trance and Christian music will undoubtedly create attraction
within the Christian community as well as for many EDM listeners.
9
10
Stats, S. (2018). Electronic Dance Music (EDM) Statistics and Facts - Statistic Stats.
Billboard. (2018). The 30 Best Trance Music Songs Ever.
5
The development process for this project began with a selection of musical material including
compositional ideas, musical references, and artists related to the concept. The initial musical
references for Trance came from artist like; Armin Van Buuren, Dash Berlin, Ferry Corsten, Paul
Oakenfold, Marcus Schultz, Above & Beyond, seven skies and Andrew Rayel.
On the other side, musical references for Christian music at this point come from artist like;
Jesus Adrian Romero, Marcos Witt, Kari Jobe, Britt Nicole, Alex Campos, Tercer Cielo, Mary Mary,
and Natalie Grant. Most of the already mentioned artists from both musical genres are Grammy
winners and, therefore have the potential to impact the evolutional process of this project positively.
Trance Electronic Music has been of significant value to “Dave Shivat” since he was a child.
This music genre apart from being part of his religion, has been also characterized for the versatility
of musical elements that it integrates to generate different emotions in the listener. Usually, this
music follows a structure in which there is a development of intensity followed by a space, leaving
melodies or atmospheres to stand alone for an extended period before gradually building up again.
Trance is known for being most of the time instrumental. However, vocals have the potential to mix
in very well. Usually, Trance blends well with mezzo-soprano to female soprano soloists.
Nonetheless, it has become a popular trend to incorporate male vocals as well.
Having mentioned this, the musical genre "Trance" within this project plays a significant role
in incorporating Christian music. Trance musical content as compared to many other subgenres of
the Electronic Dance Music world invites the listener to venture into a state of meditation, emotions,
and spirituality. Experiences that undoubtedly makes part of the Christian faith. Of course, it is of
great importance the prior selection of sounds and instruments taking place in the "EP" to transmit
the desired effect to listeners.
6
3.2
Implemented Technology
Logic X (fig. 1) served as the Digital Audio Workstation for the start in creating the initial
ideas of the project, which were then all transferred and developed in Ableton Live (fig. 2) These
two main DAWS facilitated and enhanced the making processes for the entire 6 tracks of the project.
Protools (fig. 3) served as the platform for recording all vocal takes and the mixing, mastering
process of each of the music created.
Adobe Premiere Pro (fig. 4) allowed the mash up music of the entire EP to be synchronised
with the animated logo of “David Shivat” which included the respective crediting of the artists who
collaborated in this project (fig. 5).
Figure 1. Logic Pro X
7
Figure 2. Ableton Live
8
Figure 3. Protools
Figure 4. Adobe Premiere Pro
9
10
11
Figure 5. Animated logo Ep music mash up with artist accreditation
4. Innovative Aspect
Christian Electronic Dance Music is starting to cover more electronic music genres in which
Trance is already involved. From an innovative perspective, this project did not innovate. However,
it is making a big difference from the aspect of having lyrics written in different languages as well
as being original content. Most of the music that is being considered “Trance Electronic Christian
Music” are mainly remixes from other Christian music. Additionally, the artist brand development
involved in this project is setting “Dave Shivat” apart from the competitors who are considered
underground in the scene of this kind.
12
5. New Skills Acquired
5.1Technology & Software
(i) Pro Tools
This was a very important DAW to produce, record, edit, mix and master most of the tracks
involved in the EP. The knowledge acquired will definitely be useful in song production, recording
and mixing in the future.
(ii) Ableton
Ableton Live allowed the different tracks to evolve in sound design and to reach more
experimental sounds. Three of the songs were purely made within this DAW.
(iii) Adobe Premiere
This was the crucial video editing platform to create compelling video stories and to blend
the presentation of the EP demo along with the animated logo for online deliverables.
5.2 Soft Skills
(i) Management
Skills acquired on conceptual planning, budgeting, doing proposals, music producing and
team building for the project with limited budget. Also, the skill to communicate and deal with
different people from different backgrounds and expertise.
13
6. Challenges
Trancendence was a project that encountered time limitations, concept redefinition, and a
low budget restriction. The sum of many classes taken during this academic year made the
development process of the project a big challenge. Additionally, it took quite some time not only
to learn and explore each different software but at the same time to write, produce, rehearse, and
record every part. Hence, sticking to schedule following the timeline was crucial. On the other hand,
this project involved a group of artists with a busy schedule, so having late night recording sessions
helped to solve this issue.
The most challenging part of the project happened when at last minute one of the tracks of
the EP gotten deleted by accident with no backups at all. This incident put more pressure than usual
and forced the artists to come up with a new version of the song. Fortunately, the result ended up
being way better than expected.
Also, part of the challenge was to be able to analyze and take action over all constructive
feedback given by faculty and peers to enhance the project.
7. Future Plans
“Dave Shivat” is planning on taking the project Trancendence into a whole new level by
exposing his music and talent to the world throughout the implementation of social media platforms
(Brand Awareness). Berklee had given him the exceptional opportunity to get to know artists who
are being part of his solid teamwork and now “Dave Shivat” is in the process of releasing an official
remix of the well-known artist “Soo Wincci.” a track, which will take over Asia and potentially over
Latin America upon many other regions worldwide. Visionary plans will consist of collaborations
with other artists as well as the growth of social media presence.
14
8. Conclusion
Trancendence barely had the chance to develop its full potential. The project itself required
a more considerable amount of time and research for it to create a more significant impact. Dave
Shivat is a hybrid Electronic Christian music producer who is continuously evolving and developing.
Trancendence is the project which not only unified two very different musical styles, but also
enhanced on what had already existed by creating a strategic plan to differentiate Dave Shivat’s art
from his competitors. Lastly, this project aims to inspire more music artists to step out from their
comfort zone and challenge the role of a producer and innovators.
15
Appendix A. Plan of Action and Projected Timeline
16
Appendix B. Budget and Cost
17
Bibliography
BiblioCommons. (2018). Grammy Winners for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album 19972018 - Santa Clara County Library. [online] Available at:
https://sccl.bibliocommons.com/list/share/69729839/103363702 [Accessed 27 Oct. 2018].
Billboard. (2018). The 30 Best Trance Music Songs Ever. [online] Available at:
https://www.billboard.com/photos/7948914/best-trance-music-tracks-of-all-time-edm
[Accessed 28 Oct. 2018].
En.wikipedia.org. (2018). Trance music. [online] Available at:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trance_music [Accessed 2 Nov. 2018].
"Entertainment." Learn Religions. Accessed July 03, 2019.
https://www.learnreligions.com/christianity-entertainment-4684883.
Jones, Kim. "The Changing Face of Christian Music." Learn Religions. June 25, 2019. Accessed
July 03, 2019. https://www.learnreligions.com/the-changing-face-of-christian-music710628.
Matos, Michaelangelo. "Electronic Dance Music." Encyclopedia Britannica. November 23, 2016.
Accessed July 03, 2019. https://www.britannica.com/art/electronic-dance-music.
"Origins and Development." Learn Religions. Accessed July 03, 2019.
https://www.learnreligions.com/christianity-origins-4684896.
Romero, Jorge. "¿Qué Es El EDM?" LOS40. February 01, 2019. Accessed July 03, 2019.
https://los40.com/los40/2019/02/01/actualidad/1548979340_136795.html.
Stats, S. (2018). Electronic Dance Music (EDM) Statistics and Facts - Statistic Stats. [online]
Statistic Stats. Available at: http://www.statisticstats.com/entertainment/electronic-dancemusic-edm-statistics-facts/ [Accessed 2 Nov. 2018].
Stevo. "CEDM: Discover New Christian Electronic Dance Music Songs." EDM Sauce. May 30,
2017. Accessed July 04, 2019. https://www.edmsauce.com/discover-new-music/cedm/.
18
DAVE SHIVAT:
TRANCENDENCE, THE EMERGENCE OF AN ARTISTIC IDENTITY
Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the
Degree of Master in Music Production, Technology and Innovation
Supervisor: Ben. Cantil
By David Andrés Chivatá Duque
Valencia Campus, Spain
July 2019
Table of Contents
Abstract
iii
Acknowledgements
iv
1. Introduction
1
2. Review of The State of Art
2
2.1 Electronic Dance Music
2
2.2 Contemporary Christian Music
3
2.3 Trance Electronic Music
4
2.4 Christian Electronic Dance Music
4
3. Description
4
3.1 Trance Electronic Christian Music
5
3.2 Implemented Technology
7
4. Innovative Aspect
12
5. New Skills Acquired
13
5.1 Technology and Software
13
5.2 Soft Skills
13
6. Challenges
14
7. Future Plans
14
8. Conclusion
15
Appendix A. Time of Action and Projected Time Line
16
Appendix B. Budget and Cost
17
Bibliography
18
ii
Abstract
The basis of this project was to create the emergence of an artistic identity. The idea consisted on
inventing a creative persona that throughout a look, a sound, and a concept incorporated
Contemporary Christian music within Trance (Electronic Dance Music) as an EP of 5 songs and one
remix. Essential resources needed for the completion of this project came from people contributions
and the facilities provided by Berklee College of Music in Valencia, Spain. The overall purpose of
this project was to represent the world of Christianity through the language of Trance. Current
generations, as well as the emerging ones not only will connect to this music genre, but also will
relate better to the world of spirituality.
Keywords: artistic identity, contemporary Christian music, remix, trance electronic music.
iii
Acknowledgements
I am blessed for being able to embark on this journey. Back Home, I was often being told
that pursuing this musical dream was almost impossible. I knew this would not be an easy adventure
and career to follow, but I had spent six years collecting all my talents, experiences, and education
to make this dream come true. I would like to first thank Dr. Soo Wincci for her indispensable
guidance and support in this entire journey, Ben Cantil for his incredible motivation, Nacho Marco
for his well-directed advice, Diego Amorocho for his honest, sincere and trustworthy friendship and
not to forget those who never gave up on me and encouraged me to continue to pursue my dream
without fear.
After graduating from my Bachelor of Science Degree, I finally took up my courage to apply
to my dream school which is Berklee. I am grateful to be accepted to MPTI. I left everything back
home and came to Valencia. Thankfully, my parents and my true friends had helped me in various
ways in supporting my dream. They gave me so much encouragement and financial support
throughout the whole journey and we grew stronger than before and sailed through the storm
together.
Lastly, I want to give all honor and glory to God for providing me the strength to overcome
all obstacles along this transforming journey.
iv
1. Introduction
In the late 1960s, Christian music had massive influence to the world with the various
circulation images of church, hymnals, and organs. “Traditional” was the word of the past, but this
had evolved. In the last thirty years, Christian music had been evolving and growing in an
unprecedented speed. 1
Pipe organs have been set aside for the substitution of electric guitars and drums. Hymnals
have been replaced by hard-hitting lyrics which illustrate the scene nowadays and God is being
portrayed in a modern way. Christian music had evolved further beyond the church and can be found
invincibly on radio, TV, concert halls and at huge rallies and festivals. It had expanded to include a
vast array of styles like rock, metal, rap, country, gospel, urban gospel and pop which Christian can
definitely find something which interest them.2
Hence, the main objective of this research is to illustrate the evolution of the artist brand of
“Dave Shivat” which includes the process of integrating both musical styles of Trance Electronic
Music and Christian Music to reinvent his music artistry.
1
Jones, Kim. "The Changing Face of Christian Music." Learn Religions. June 25, 2019. Accessed July 03,
2019. https://www.learnreligions.com/the-changing-face-of-christian-music-710628.
2
"Entertainment." Learn Religions. Accessed July 03, 2019. https://www.learnreligions.com/christianityentertainment-4684883.
1
2. Review of The State of Art
2.1
Electronic Dance Music
Electronic Dance Music, which is also known as EDM, refers to the term for a panoply of
musical styles that emerged in the mid-1980s. 3 Rather than designating a single genre, electronic
dance music (EDM) encompasses styles ranging from beatless ambient music to 200 beats per
minute hardcore with house music, techno, drum and bass, dubstep and trance are among the most
notable examples.
Several defining features which characterize electronic dance music includes its recognition
for delivering inorganic sounds and timbres, frequently produced by cheap early-1980s gear such as
the 303-bass synthesizer and the 808-drum machine and both made by Japanese electronics firm
Roland or built from samples of previous recordings.4 Live instrumentation and singing were often
featured but it was usually used as a garnish rather than the main dish. Most importantly, this type
of music was created specifically for the social function of dancing all night.
A strong emphasis on rhythm is therefore common to most styles of EDM, while ambience
music which focuses less on maintaining the beat provides an aural cushion for settling down at the
end of the night. Furthermore, EDM recordings are produced primarily to be played in dance clubs
by disc jockeys (DJs) with a mix of other records of the same type rather than catering it to home
listeners.
3
Matos, Michaelangelo. "Electronic Dance Music." Encyclopedia Britannica. November 23, 2016. Accessed July 03,
2019. https://www.britannica.com/art/electronic-dance-music.
4
Romero, Jorge. "¿Qué Es El EDM?" LOS40. February 01, 2019. Accessed July 03, 2019.
https://los40.com/los40/2019/02/01/actualidad/1548979340_136795.html.
2
2.2
Contemporary Christian Music
Contemporary Christian Music 5 is a genre of modern popular music which focuses its lyrics
on matters concerned with the Christian Faith. The Contemporary Christian Music industry had
grown over the years. Album sales had increased from 31 million in 1996 to 44 million sales in 2000.
The church initially dismissed the growing popularity of “Rock N 'Roll” music in the 1950s
because it was believed to encourage sinfulness. As evangelical churches adapted to be more
appealing to the mass, the musical styles used in worship changed as well by adopting the sounds of
this popular style. 6
The "Jesus Movement" of the 1970's was when things really started changing and Christian
music began to become an industry within itself. Some of the pioneers of the times were:
•
Larry Norman - A true pioneer in Christian alternative rock since the 1960's, he is called
the "father of Christian rock" by many.
•
Marsha Stevens - The leader of Children of the Day is called the "mother of contemporary
Christian music" by The Encyclopedia of Contemporary Christian Music.
•
Nancy Honeytree - Nancy carries the nickname the "First Lady of Jesus Music", she was
one of the few female artists to emerge from the Jesus Movement.
•
Chuck Girard - He was one of the first Contemporary Christian artists, getting his start in a
church in California.
5
BiblioCommons. (2018). Grammy Winners for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album 1997-2018 - Santa Clara
County Library.
6
"Origins and Development." Learn Religions. Accessed July 03, 2019. https://www.learnreligions.com/christianityorigins-4684896.
3
2.3
Trance Electronic Music
Trance music 7 is a form of electronic dance music (EDM) characterized by hypnotic rhythm
and sound with the aim of helping the audience to reach a heightened consciousness. It is known for
having a song tempo generally ranging between 128 to 142 beats per minute (BPM). Trance has its
origins in musical genres such as House, Techno, Pop, classical music, film score, and ambient music.
2.4
Christian Electronic Dance Music
Christian Electronic Dance Music 8 otherwise known as CEDM is a genre within Christian
music. Mostly said that producers just create Christian dubstep and Christian electronic, there are
now many other forms of CEDM including deep house, techno, trance and much more.
Some of CEDM’s most notable artists include Hillsong Young & Free, Neon Feathers, Kye
Kye, LZ7, Owl City, Capital Kings, And Then There Were None, Scott Blackwell, The Brothers
Martin, Code of Ethics, Purified, Mortal, Mad at the World, Leiahdorus, Andy Hunter, Joy Electric,
V*Enna, Urban Rescue, Dash, Matthew J. Bentley, Biotronix, FreeG, Harmegiddo, Matthew Parker,
Audile, DJ Jireh, DJ Hiz Glory, G-Powered and Salt of the Sound.
3. Description
Trancendence is a project with a purpose to evoke a sense of existence or experience beyond
the ordinary or physical level. Trancendence is a project that involves the creation of a five-song Ep
7
En.wikipedia.org. (2018). Trance music.
Stevo. "CEDM: Discover New Christian Electronic Dance Music Songs." EDM Sauce. May 30, 2017. Accessed July
04, 2019. https://www.edmsauce.com/discover-new-music/cedm/.
8
4
and one remix from the song “Cut Away” by the artist “Soo Wincci”. In which, the personal artist
brand “Dave Shivat” transforms himself from being a recording engineer into a hybrid Latin
contemporary Christian electronic music producer. Subsequently, collaborating with artists from
various backgrounds and diversity has led this project to grow and expand within different
ramifications geographically. Therefore, the creation of the project has opened the doors for multi
languages such as English, Chinese, Malays and Spanish. Each part of the project will be further
explained in the next section.
3.1 Trance Electronic Christian Music
In 2018, Billboard
9
released a market statistic that proved the value and worth of the
electronic dance music market. In this statistical statement, the company showed a 12-percent
growth within one year which many changes took place within this musical revolution. Since then
EDM had been incorporated in various genres and subgenres.
It is clear that part of the success of EDM 10 is because these scenes are popping up all over
the world, pushing it to become the one of the furthest reached genres in contemporary music. In
support of this, the concept of this project has excellent potential to succeed, not only because of the
integration of two different genres into one but because it is compilating genres that are exponentially
growing over time. The inclusion of Trance and Christian music will undoubtedly create attraction
within the Christian community as well as for many EDM listeners.
9
10
Stats, S. (2018). Electronic Dance Music (EDM) Statistics and Facts - Statistic Stats.
Billboard. (2018). The 30 Best Trance Music Songs Ever.
5
The development process for this project began with a selection of musical material including
compositional ideas, musical references, and artists related to the concept. The initial musical
references for Trance came from artist like; Armin Van Buuren, Dash Berlin, Ferry Corsten, Paul
Oakenfold, Marcus Schultz, Above & Beyond, seven skies and Andrew Rayel.
On the other side, musical references for Christian music at this point come from artist like;
Jesus Adrian Romero, Marcos Witt, Kari Jobe, Britt Nicole, Alex Campos, Tercer Cielo, Mary Mary,
and Natalie Grant. Most of the already mentioned artists from both musical genres are Grammy
winners and, therefore have the potential to impact the evolutional process of this project positively.
Trance Electronic Music has been of significant value to “Dave Shivat” since he was a child.
This music genre apart from being part of his religion, has been also characterized for the versatility
of musical elements that it integrates to generate different emotions in the listener. Usually, this
music follows a structure in which there is a development of intensity followed by a space, leaving
melodies or atmospheres to stand alone for an extended period before gradually building up again.
Trance is known for being most of the time instrumental. However, vocals have the potential to mix
in very well. Usually, Trance blends well with mezzo-soprano to female soprano soloists.
Nonetheless, it has become a popular trend to incorporate male vocals as well.
Having mentioned this, the musical genre "Trance" within this project plays a significant role
in incorporating Christian music. Trance musical content as compared to many other subgenres of
the Electronic Dance Music world invites the listener to venture into a state of meditation, emotions,
and spirituality. Experiences that undoubtedly makes part of the Christian faith. Of course, it is of
great importance the prior selection of sounds and instruments taking place in the "EP" to transmit
the desired effect to listeners.
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3.2
Implemented Technology
Logic X (fig. 1) served as the Digital Audio Workstation for the start in creating the initial
ideas of the project, which were then all transferred and developed in Ableton Live (fig. 2) These
two main DAWS facilitated and enhanced the making processes for the entire 6 tracks of the project.
Protools (fig. 3) served as the platform for recording all vocal takes and the mixing, mastering
process of each of the music created.
Adobe Premiere Pro (fig. 4) allowed the mash up music of the entire EP to be synchronised
with the animated logo of “David Shivat” which included the respective crediting of the artists who
collaborated in this project (fig. 5).
Figure 1. Logic Pro X
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Figure 2. Ableton Live
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Figure 3. Protools
Figure 4. Adobe Premiere Pro
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Figure 5. Animated logo Ep music mash up with artist accreditation
4. Innovative Aspect
Christian Electronic Dance Music is starting to cover more electronic music genres in which
Trance is already involved. From an innovative perspective, this project did not innovate. However,
it is making a big difference from the aspect of having lyrics written in different languages as well
as being original content. Most of the music that is being considered “Trance Electronic Christian
Music” are mainly remixes from other Christian music. Additionally, the artist brand development
involved in this project is setting “Dave Shivat” apart from the competitors who are considered
underground in the scene of this kind.
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5. New Skills Acquired
5.1Technology & Software
(i) Pro Tools
This was a very important DAW to produce, record, edit, mix and master most of the tracks
involved in the EP. The knowledge acquired will definitely be useful in song production, recording
and mixing in the future.
(ii) Ableton
Ableton Live allowed the different tracks to evolve in sound design and to reach more
experimental sounds. Three of the songs were purely made within this DAW.
(iii) Adobe Premiere
This was the crucial video editing platform to create compelling video stories and to blend
the presentation of the EP demo along with the animated logo for online deliverables.
5.2 Soft Skills
(i) Management
Skills acquired on conceptual planning, budgeting, doing proposals, music producing and
team building for the project with limited budget. Also, the skill to communicate and deal with
different people from different backgrounds and expertise.
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6. Challenges
Trancendence was a project that encountered time limitations, concept redefinition, and a
low budget restriction. The sum of many classes taken during this academic year made the
development process of the project a big challenge. Additionally, it took quite some time not only
to learn and explore each different software but at the same time to write, produce, rehearse, and
record every part. Hence, sticking to schedule following the timeline was crucial. On the other hand,
this project involved a group of artists with a busy schedule, so having late night recording sessions
helped to solve this issue.
The most challenging part of the project happened when at last minute one of the tracks of
the EP gotten deleted by accident with no backups at all. This incident put more pressure than usual
and forced the artists to come up with a new version of the song. Fortunately, the result ended up
being way better than expected.
Also, part of the challenge was to be able to analyze and take action over all constructive
feedback given by faculty and peers to enhance the project.
7. Future Plans
“Dave Shivat” is planning on taking the project Trancendence into a whole new level by
exposing his music and talent to the world throughout the implementation of social media platforms
(Brand Awareness). Berklee had given him the exceptional opportunity to get to know artists who
are being part of his solid teamwork and now “Dave Shivat” is in the process of releasing an official
remix of the well-known artist “Soo Wincci.” a track, which will take over Asia and potentially over
Latin America upon many other regions worldwide. Visionary plans will consist of collaborations
with other artists as well as the growth of social media presence.
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8. Conclusion
Trancendence barely had the chance to develop its full potential. The project itself required
a more considerable amount of time and research for it to create a more significant impact. Dave
Shivat is a hybrid Electronic Christian music producer who is continuously evolving and developing.
Trancendence is the project which not only unified two very different musical styles, but also
enhanced on what had already existed by creating a strategic plan to differentiate Dave Shivat’s art
from his competitors. Lastly, this project aims to inspire more music artists to step out from their
comfort zone and challenge the role of a producer and innovators.
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Appendix A. Plan of Action and Projected Timeline
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Appendix B. Budget and Cost
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