Klarinet Archive - Posting 000529.txt from 1995/11

From: "Scott D. Morrow" <SDM@-----.EDU>
Subj: Re: competition
Date: Thu, 30 Nov 1995 10:01:56 -0500

> When do we draw the line between the productive and destructive aspects
>of
>competion. In Jr High and High school it was a big thing and some people get
> the
>idea that we have to play well to prove we are better than this person or that.
>That is where we a directed so that is where we go. Band parents can be just
> as bad
>in this aspect as little league baseball parents. I know I got this way. The
>unfortunate backlash is that a sence of playing music for the fun and beauty of
> it is
>lost till we mature pass that. Now the only time I'm out for blood is audition
> time
>and after that, let's make some music.
> Sean

I think another "sideline" to this is the impression fostered in Jr. High
and High School bands and orchestras that playing 2nd or 3rd clarinet means
you're not "good enough"! As we all (hopefully!) realize, EVERY part in a
band/orchestra is important in MAKING THE MUSIC! I believe that "making
the music" should be stressed as the ultimate goal, and whatever
competition is there should be made "healthy" competition! Who wants to
play in a cutthroat orchestra?!

-Scott

Scott D. Morrow
(410)-955-3631

SDM@-----.edu