Monday, June 24, 2019

Discovering Pyrotechnics In Art And Music

By Jeffrey Williams


When it comes to having fun, there are a number of different ways in which to do so. For some, it involves some aspect of pyrotechnics whether related to fire dancing, creating heat, light, smoke or sound. The term originates from the Greek words pyro meaning fire and tekhnikos meaning made by art.

Other areas in which the element holds a presence include fireworks, safety matches, some automotive airbag parts, oxygen candles, explosive bolts and anything else related to fire, especially when related to music or the performing arts. Whereas, most people in charge of the devices used in this type of work are referred to as pyro-technicians.

Fireworks, flames, smoke, flashes and explosions used in entertainment are often referred to as fire art, such as that which takes place at the Burning Man festival. The proximate location refers to the device's position relative to an audience. In most areas, special licensing and training must be completed along with permission of the owner of a venue or property when using any aspect of fire art.

Currently, Paul McCartney has one of the biggest fire art and firework displays of any concert to date. Although, there are a number of others who also use the technology during live shows. Pink Floyd was one of the first bands to use the technology in concert in the 1980s. For, during the song, "Careful with That Axe, Eugene" smoke and ash would erupt from the back of the staging area.

Later, fire became extremely popular with groups such as Queen, Kiss, The Who and others. As proven by Michael Jackson whose hair caught on fire while filming a Pepsi commercial, the technology can also have a down side. Although, Rammstein, a German industrial metal band are renowned for the incorporation of different aspects of the technology into each performance. Whereas, more recently American bands Green Day and Lordi have also been using the technology.

Fire dances, drum and dance events, burning festivals like that of Burning Man and other festivals in which fire is at the center have been going on for centuries. While this is the case, those performing as fire dancers often wear flame retardant materials or, at the very least have a fire extinguisher close by. Whereas, drum and dance events and fire circles often have monitors which watch the fire closely during an event.

In theatrical performances, these type of devices are often used to create the effect of fire coming out of a fountain, a process known as a gerb. In most cases, the devices are less dangerous than others though do still pose a risk of fire if used improperly. Still, theater just wouldn't be theater without the occasional exploding fountain or fire jet.

While there are different categories with regards to the technology, most devices are operated by remote control unit operated by a technician. In many cases, the individual may be using a control panel in which fireworks or other types of fire art can be released in sequence or by a pre-programmed sequence. When this is the case, music is often programmed to play in alignment the fireworks or fire art.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment