The other day I saw Bon Jovi perform live. I had good seats, on the floor right in front of the stage; I was able to see everything well. But I was amazed to see that everyone can see well – if they’re looking at the screens.

It’s been 20 years since I’ve attended a large hard rock concert. I remember in the 1980s seeing the Scorpions and Van Halen, and noticing how much they danced around the stage. They showed a lot of energy, and seemed to be having a lot of fun.

In 2006 things have changed! First, many of my favorite rock musicians have gotten old (like me) and no longer move around the stage very much. They mostly just stand in one place. (The singer did a little dance, tapping his left foot, then his right foot, then again his left foot… But except for his fee, he hardly moved.) I realized they need to stand still so that the cameras can film them – the cameras that are displayed on huge screens above the stage. The screens are great, because they show you the performers so well. You can see the drops of sweat on their faces, even from 200 meters away! You can see the drops on their 20 meter screens!

I enjoyed seeing the new concert technology. I like the screens because they show everyone a great view. But I’m a little sad too. Now artists can’t move around, because if they did the cameras wouldn’t be able to follow them. And you could see them almost as well at home, in front of your TV. Going to a concert to watch TV seems a bit sad.