Project Musings update, early June

Stil having some trouble working out a more specific topic (taking research methods into account has only complicated the task in my mind, as "Is this intersting/suitable/specific?" must also take into account "How is this feasible?" ...). May have finally made a breakthrough. After recounting the saga of not-having-any-good-ideas to my sister, received suggestion that comparing cross-cultural artisitc literacy may make for an interesting project. Idea was discarded as impossible, but led to a more feasible line of inquiry along the lines of "How do the arts transcend culture?" Personal opinion is that yes, they do (especially along the lines of instrumental music... heck, most of my own repetoire is from the German romantics after all).

So, a preliminary brainstorm along those lines (will need to be refined in two days, eeps!)
*Attend Opera or other vocal performing outlets: how are language barriers overcome (reverting to vocal instead of orchestral music here, as the language barrier seems to be the obvious hinderance).
*Attend a more modern/popular outfit: to what extent is "American" musical influence in evidence? Jazz :) or American Pop elements :( ?
*Observation/ people watching: what sort of people are attending musical venues. Ie, the Berlin Philharmonic is one of the world's most prestigous symphony orchestras, so I would expect a larger number of tourists in attendence than might be found at less well-known performances. Also, would tend to expect an older, soberer audience than at other venues.
*Interviews: Opinions from audience-members or performers. Introduces further subjectivitity, and not very enthused about this idea.