Klarinet Archive - Posting 000135.txt from 1994/11

From: "Dan Leeson: LEESON@-----.EDU>
Subj: Ken Maltz' comments on ethnic playing
Date: Tue, 8 Nov 1994 08:06:34 -0500

Ken, in this matter we have a much more difficult task were we to set up
a contest (and I do not propose doing that) for there is not the breadth
of playing of klezmer as there is in the European classical tradition, at
least not on records, though your contention is that there is a breadth
in actual playing practice and that you could detect differences in
klezmer players.

But, that notwithstanding, the argument that you put forward so cogently
is exactly that of the previous ones which state that "there is a difference
and I hear it so it exists." I take the contrary position: "I do not hear
a difference so, for me at least, it does not exist." And with those
positions articulated, where are we? Nowhere, that's where.

It is easy for you to say (and I paraphrase) based on attacks, and
sound characteristics, and a variety of other elements critical to
klezmer playing, you could tell the difference. Perhaps you could,
but I don't think so. In a blind test, I assert that you would fail.
I assert that your prejudice in this arena is dictated by many facts,
not the least of which is the fact that you probably are a very good
klezmer player and, therefore, make presumptions about what abilities
beyond playing that gives you. (I once did the Gran Partitta with
Charlie Russo in NY and Charlie said, "I've played this piece 50 times
and I know how it goes so don't argue with me." The fact that he played
the piece 50 times gives him no special understanding of it. The
fact that you are probably a very good klezmer player does not necessarily
give you any expertise to make judgements outside of your performances in
that art form. No offense intended. It is a common mistake among
many clarinet players - and I am part of that crowd - that presumes that
if we play a piece we know how it goes. Bad logic.)

We are waiting on the results of one blind test already so I don't propose
another, but your argument that I am in error suggests simply that you
hear something that I deny exists. It does not mean you are right or that
I am wrong (though that may be the case). It says simply what it says
and does not constitute a statement of fact. It asserts your belief just
as forcefully and articulately as you are able to make it. But that does
not make it true.

Oh yes. Yichus does not mean what you say it means. It refers only
to a genealogic heritage and has no meaning whatsoever outside of that
very narrowly defined arena. The word would never be used in respect
to "heritage."

I am so sorry that we disagree and I enjoy reading your views on the matter.
But we are anti-polar, unfortunately.

Respectfully, Dan

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Dan Leeson, Los Altos, California
(leeson@-----.edu)
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