Great Music Needs Great Inspiration

(not so much the human sacrifice)

Doxter S writes: Great music needs great inspiration. When we travel to the Mayan ruins near Cancun, the most impressive structure is the temple at Chichen Itza , a massive structure shaped as a pyramid, with large external steps on all sides. It is tempting to climb the steps to get to the top and view the surrounding Yucatan jungle. However, getting back down to ground level can be a problem for some, especially with fear of heights, at least without a helping hand. That may be because this was the site for a ritualistic human sacrifice. Those were the good old days. The Mayans worshipped the sun, and it was considered an honor to climb the steps of this Temple of The Sun (Temple of Doom) for a ritualistic beheading.

The location, however, does inspire the creation of great music. The entire geologic site is immense, surrounded by lush foliage, and populated by very friendly and helpful Mexicans, many of Mayan descent. There is a pulse, a heartbeat, that can be felt in this ancient place. Today, this site hosts a rock concert of sorts during the Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year. The local tourist organization puts on a show of Sound and Light that is both entertaining and informative. The temple is lit up with projections of images relevant to the storyline above, including the Bird-Snake God Quetzalcoatl. The music is mysterious, mythical, rhythmic, but not very memorable. It is only intended to provide background to the images. It does reinforce the belief that music is a necessary part of all peoples lives, past and present.

Doxter S thinks Chichen Itza is a great location for outdoor concerts. Plenty of space. Stadium seating. Fresh air. Just don’t drink the water.