This morning I caught this short story on CNN (video below) on a very cool organization called D-PAN (Deaf Performing Artists Network) which, according to their website, "...create[s] media designed specifically to serve deaf audiences through the use of American Sign Language (ASL)." Their latest video is a visual interpretation of the song "Beautiful" by Christina Aguilera. I never paid much attention to the song until I heard it augmented visually today by D-PAN. I think this is a great example of visuals combining with the music and lyrics to make a more powerful message. This is an inspirational little video for the deaf/hard of hearing and for the hearing alike. Frankly, I think it's better than the original; they did a great job with a good simple concept. You can watch the video below.
Comments
Thanks for posting this. My second language is sign language so I loved this site.
The Grateful Dead had an ASL interpreter on stage for most performances, and special seating for the hearing impared. The interpreters translated both the lyrics and the music, and were a treat to watch.
Not only did the Dead have an ASL interpreter, but there was a sizable subculture of hearing impaired fans, most of whom seems to fixate on Phil Lesh's powerful bass, which could be felt as well as heard.
These are compelling videos. Deaf/hard of hearing is a disability that is much misunderstood. Thanks for posting this. It helps get the message across.....
How inspirational. At my school (Utah Valley University) we have a very strong ASL program. I am always impressed by the kindness of the students and teachers in the program.
Garr - and absolutely wonderful post, I enjoyed these videos so very much. Often times I have hearing impaired folks in the audience when I am giving a talk and it has been a joy to work with the ASL interpreters to make sure that everyone was enjoying themselves and getting value out of the class. Thank you for posting these clips, I'm going to forward the link on to everyone on my e-mail list -- extremely powerful stuff -- thanks -- John
I want to thank you for sharing this. I teach future teachers at a large state University in South Carolina. In my class there is a young lady who is hearing impaired. The University sends an interpreter each time we have class. When I introduced this video (Beautiful) I asked the interpreter to watch, too, since this would be the first time he could rest his hands during our class period. She was in awe an most of my class was in tears.
Thanks for posting this. My second language is sign language so I loved this site.
Posted by: Christine | November 18, 2008 at 02:02 AM
Nice examples, Garr.
The Grateful Dead had an ASL interpreter on stage for most performances, and special seating for the hearing impared. The interpreters translated both the lyrics and the music, and were a treat to watch.
Posted by: Spencer | November 18, 2008 at 02:54 AM
Not only did the Dead have an ASL interpreter, but there was a sizable subculture of hearing impaired fans, most of whom seems to fixate on Phil Lesh's powerful bass, which could be felt as well as heard.
Amazing video - thanks.
Posted by: Ken | November 18, 2008 at 05:28 AM
These are compelling videos. Deaf/hard of hearing is a disability that is much misunderstood. Thanks for posting this. It helps get the message across.....
Posted by: Michael Sporer | November 18, 2008 at 09:36 AM
How inspirational. At my school (Utah Valley University) we have a very strong ASL program. I am always impressed by the kindness of the students and teachers in the program.
Thanks Garr for posting this.
Posted by: Hamlet | November 18, 2008 at 10:48 AM
Garr - and absolutely wonderful post, I enjoyed these videos so very much. Often times I have hearing impaired folks in the audience when I am giving a talk and it has been a joy to work with the ASL interpreters to make sure that everyone was enjoying themselves and getting value out of the class. Thank you for posting these clips, I'm going to forward the link on to everyone on my e-mail list -- extremely powerful stuff -- thanks -- John
Posted by: John Spence | November 20, 2008 at 12:26 AM
Garr,
I want to thank you for sharing this. I teach future teachers at a large state University in South Carolina. In my class there is a young lady who is hearing impaired. The University sends an interpreter each time we have class. When I introduced this video (Beautiful) I asked the interpreter to watch, too, since this would be the first time he could rest his hands during our class period. She was in awe an most of my class was in tears.
Thanks for this inspiration.
Chris Craft
www.christophercraft.com
Posted by: Chris Craft | November 22, 2008 at 01:01 AM