Klarinet Archive - Posting 000076.txt from 1998/03

From: JohnnyWalt <JohnnyWalt@-----.com>
Subj: Re: Marching Band (was alto mpcs)
Date: Mon, 2 Mar 1998 18:13:10 -0500

In a message dated 98-03-02 01:27:13 EST, you write:

>
> One thing which concerns me about this discussion is that while some
> people will come to the defense of your position about marching, it may
> seem that others are ganging up on you. And, assuming that you are still
> a high school student, you may not yet have the breadth of musical
> experience which will give you the "ammunition" you need to prevail in the
> debate. Ironically, getting that greater breadth of musical experience
> may have the effect of causing you to change your stance on the question.
>

I will never change my views on marching band. I have played in some of
the nation's top bands/youth orchestras and know what that musical experience
is like. You are correct, I have not experienced even near to everything in
the musical spectrum, but I have a general view. Just the same, marching band
cannot be described. In its true essence it is ineffable....you ask "what
greatness can be acheived?" and "what is the true value in marching band?"
Marching band is a wonderful combination of mechanical movement and music.
Participating in it is just as valuable to me as music is to you. It
frustrates me that you have such a firm opinion without knowing what it is
like to be in a great marching band. What have been your experiences with
marching band? Have you ever been to a national competition? Unless you have
participated in an excellent marching band, how can you convey that marching
band has no value or greatness?? I am tired and sick of people stereotyping
marching bands as your typical no-brainer high school kids who can't play
worth a damn. There is a Native American saying, "Great spirit, let me
criticize no man until I have walked a mile in his moccasins." It seems to be
appropriate for this subject.....

Matt Walter