Klarinet Archive - Posting 000130.txt from 1998/03

From: Jennifer Rose McKenna <jrm0013@-----.edu>
Subj: Re: Marching Band (was alto mpcs)
Date: Mon, 2 Mar 1998 23:46:40 -0500

gee, i've been in a national competition and a big marching band, and i still only do it
becuase i'm required..if i had a choice i wouldn't do it.

On Mon, 2 Mar 1998 16:18:58 EST JohnnyWalt <JohnnyWalt@-----.com> wrote:
> 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