Klarinet Archive - Posting 000565.txt from 1997/12

From: David McClune <dmcclune@-----.edu>
Subj: Kenny G
Date: Thu, 11 Dec 1997 19:42:38 -0500

I have read the recent and past negative comments on Kenny G's playing.
While he does not seem to have the depth of jazz creativity as other artists
he IS making a living performing music!

He is a fellow single reeder who has made it, playing what HE wants! How
many of us play pop's concerts because the orchestra needs them to balance
the budget? Ever play a circus, an Elk's club, or background music at
someones Christmas reception? Have we sold our soul somehow, or did we put
food on our table?

It is easy to pontificate from a practice room, but let's face it; more kids
are in instrumental music programs because Kenny G and other "pop-jazz"
instrumentalists have made it to the mainstream.
Dr. David McClune
Professor of Clarinet
Director of Bands
Union University
Jackson, TN 38305
901-661-5294-office