Klarinet Archive - Posting 000203.txt from 1995/06

From: James Sclater <sclater@-----.EDU>
Subj: Re: Creativity in performing
Date: Mon, 12 Jun 1995 10:41:07 -0400

May I take the opportunity to respond to Dan's assertion that
performing is not a creative act. It seems that just because a performer
is not called upon to devise the specifics of notes and rhythms, etc. that
Dan views the performing process as non-creative. Speaking as a
clarinetist and a composer, I would take issue with this. It has been my
experience that most performers are not creative enough, at least with my
works. Very often I find myself asking perfomers to be freer in their
approach to the music. I don't feel as if I have the last word about
interpretation of my pieces and depend on others to show me things in
them... new ways to phrase, etc...new elements to bring out. If this is
not being creative, I don't know what is. I don't want to hear my works
played exactly the same way each time.
As a composer, I use A or Bb clarinet mostly based on key and
technical facility. If something is technically difficult, I try to pick
the clarinet which will make the passage less of a problem. Having played
many works in which the choice made was a poor one, I feel this is
important. I don't really care what instrument is used to play my pieces
as long as the result is musical.
I can't help but believe that they are many composers out there
who would chuckle at this whole discussion.

James Sclater inet: sclater@-----.edu
Mississippi College (601)925-3445
Clinton, MS 39058