Discovering Pyrotechnics In Music And Art

By Jeffrey Williams


When it comes to unique and unusual work, fire can often play a place. For, pyrotechnics is an area in which individuals need a lot of skill. Whereas, individuals can often also have fun simply by playing with the element, as long as done so safely. One area in which fire is at the center is in that of being a burner or fire dancer, either of which can be work or play.

When it comes to the term, the scope is much broader than fire. For, the word can relate to anything related to fire. In most cases, this includes fireworks, safety matches, oxygen candles, explosive bolts, parts of automotive air bags, gas pressure blasting used in mining, quarrying and demolition.

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.

The band Phish uses fire art as does Paul McCartney and others in concert. In fact, a number of musical groups use the technology to enhance live shows. Pink Floyd was one of the first innovators when it comes to the use of the technology in concert. One good example of this type of use is in Pink Floyd's song "Careful With That Axe, Eugene" in which a blast of smoke was set off from the back of the staging area.

In fact, groups such as The Who, Kiss and Queen have put on some of the most dramatic concerts in history by using fire. Although, it is not only rock and roll bands as seen by Rammstein, a metal industrial band which are renowned for incorporating different aspects of the technology in live shows and videos. Whereas, American pop bands Lordi and Green Day have also been using the technology.

The technology is broken down into several categories, each of which provides a different result. Although, a combination is often used when it comes to professional displays of fireworks, especially during a finale. As such, it is important that spectators be alert, aware and cautious at these events as some devices or fireworks can catch on fire.

These type of devices are also used in theater productions for dramatic effect. For example, to create an effect of fire erupting from a volcano, a process known as gerb is applied. While these devices are often less dangerous than others, there is still a risk of fire when used improperly. As such, it is important that individuals, often known as pyro-technicians have the proper training before working with these type of devices.

Regardless of category, most of these devices are now initiated by a remote control signal which causes an electrical charge or e-match to produce ignition. While the remote may be a manual device, the computer can be controlled via a switch console in order to fire a sequence or pre-programmed sequence of fireworks in different formats which tracks with the live performance during stage cues.




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