February hosts both the Grammys and the Oscars, two elite award events. The National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences first presented the Grammys in 1959 to recognize outstanding musicians. This year it will be held on Feb. 8. The Oscars were established in 1929 to award the cinematic achievements made in the film industry. This year the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will present the awards on Feb. 22.
Junior Cassidi Shorter said she not only loves listening and playing music, but she loves celebrating the art, meaning she will not be missing the Grammys.
“In all cultures music plays a huge part,” Shorter said. “My mom is from Honduras and we have certain styles of dance and song that are specific to our culture. And I think music definitely infiltrates American culture.”
Shorter said she appreciates each category but especially enjoys the awards for Best New Artist, Best Alternative Album and Album of the Year.
This year’s best new artist nominees include: Iggy Azalea, Bastille, Brandy Clark, Haim and Sam Smith. There are 78 categories awarded at the Grammys.
“There are some albums and some artists that change people’s lives, and if they are up for a Grammy that’s big, that’s huge, that’s something I support,” Shorter said. “I support my favorite artists, especially if they are up for a Grammy. I am going to be watching, because I’m rooting for them.”
The Oscars has 24 categories, not including the special categories, which are categories not always awarded. Grant Dillion, an adjunct communications professor, said he lives and breathes to create films. Dillon said his favorite Oscar categories include Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Original Screenplay. Many viewers create personal ballots for the Oscars. Dillon said he believes “Whiplash” has a good chance of winning the Best Adapted Screenplay and that “Birdman” has the best chance of winning Best Original Screenplay.
Senior Dylan Treadwell said he has loved making films since he was young.
“Stories change the world, humans think in stories, we learn through stories,” Treadwell said. “Film, for now, is one of the most immersive forms of storytelling. And it’s the most universal form of communication. If your audience can see, you can tell a story that can translate to any nation, language or culture.”
Treadwell said his favorite award category is Best Cinematography. Film is a visual medium, so to win the award for telling a story visually is a big deal, Treadwell said.
“The Oscars celebrate the best films and films that are made simply by people who love films and are not necessarily trying to make the most money with it or try to reach the widest audience, but they are making it because they are passionate about it,” Dillion said.
Dillon also said that the quality of films would deteriorate if it were not for the Oscars pushing and awarding those who create masterpieces.
Award shows inspire many musicians and filmmakers to continue down the path of creativity.
