Sortinghat RP

Greetings, everyone, and welcome back!

I do hope that everyone has had a marvelous Christmas. All of the festivities, all of the music got me thinking - I need to write some Christmas music! But it wouldn't be timely anymore, now, would it? I must find another occasion to celebrate. What is next on the calendar - Valentine's Day...!? Well I certanily wouldn't announce if I were planning to write a serenade for a sweetheart; it would ruin the surprise.

That said, I will be taking commissions! You have my word that your beau will have no idea that he or she is having music written for them until 14 February itself. Contact me privately and we can discuss prices or other arrangements. It does seem a bit early to be thinking of Valentine's Day, of course, but bear in mind that I take care with what I compose and would prefer not to do things in a rush. I am not much of a poet but I adore setting poetry to music, so if you've got a favorite, I'd love to work with it.

On another note, what is this dueling fiasco that everyone's whispering about!? I did not think the school would encourage such violence. I'd much prefer to be in my dormitory relaxing. I've never been fond of unnecessary quarrels, let alone ones that turn physical.

In any case, I look forward to hearing from you all. And if anyone is willing to allow me to experiment a bit with adding a bit more... compelling charm to the tune, I would be up for it. I'm still quite interested in making music practical and applicable to magic, though I promise not to sneak anything in that is not requested for specifically.

Tchüss!
-Roderich

Greetings!

I have been pondering the topic of music. I know, I know - what else is new? But I was wondering if I could get some opinions.

How do people feel about the concept of music as a manipulative device?

I am aware that to some, it may not be effective. But others are quite sensitive to the effect of various tones, producing various results as well based on each individual's personal experience. But think about it - as practitioners of magic, we are constantly manipulating others, manipulating fate, and the physical appearance of those around us.

In terms of human emotion, is making music the closest a muggle can get to using magic?

I've taken conducting classes back home, at summer programs, and I have to say that holding the baton in my hand, taking that command over a large group of people to create exactly what I wanted, was not so different from holding a wand and casting a spell. There is a certain invigorating power that it inspires, having that control to realize exactly what is in your mind at the moment.

Is it dangerous? Can music, too, be used negatively? I wouldn't want to, mind! But it was a thought - obviously it doesn't have as direct an effect as a dark spell might, but if one were to manipulate another person, through music, for selfish reasons - is that dangerous? Think of the Minnesänger troubadours, think of the serenades used to woo women from high towers, think of the patriotic music used to stir loyalty in troops in times of war. In Ancient Greece, it was believed that a king was stirred to battle simply by hearing a tune played on a flute in the Phrygian mode.

Can music, or any sound, really, be used to enhance our own magic? Maybe even to help us defend ourselves? I would also appreciate opinions from those of you who normally aren't as interested in music. Even if just to ensure that I am not thinking too idealistically through the eyes of a musician myself. Objective reassurance would be nice, if you can give it sincerely.

Yours,
Roderich 

[The following comes in at about 7AM.]

26 October

Good Morning! It is not often I am so alert at such an early hour, however: today, I am seventeen. When I return home I can legally drive my father's automobile! If I am lucky, perhaps I will get one of my own.

For now, I will settle for treats. Please leave any sweets you may have for me on my bed, or if you are not in Slytherin then please feel free to respond to arrange a time for me to collect them elsewhere.

I enjoy chocolate. Preferably bold in flavor and not too sugary. Even better if it has taken the form of a baked good.

I do not trust any of you to make Apfelstrudel so please do not attempt it.

Regards,
Roderich