Klarinet Archive - Posting 000329.txt from 1998/03

From: "Ginstling/Ransom" <ginsuransom@-----.net>
Subj: re: Memorization
Date: Fri, 6 Mar 1998 14:43:12 -0500

Hi-

My take on memorization is that if one feels comfortable to do so, they
should do it...And if one has any doubt, use the music...I think the
observations that wind players seem to play from memory less frequently
stems from the fact that they don't play solos or concertos too frequently.
Obviously, the major soloists (strings, pianists) have many more
opportunities to play from memory and therefore can feel more confident
doing so...

As for me, I know that the few times I've played a concerto from memory I've
felt an amazing connection with the listeners and an unusual ability to
communicate that I don't recall feeling when I've used music. But, everyone
is different...

As for those with "photographic"memories, I think that Lorin Maazel heads
the list. He is known to have such an amazing recall of a score that he can
actually REHEARSE a piece with orchestra from memory, and have no problem
asking the orchestra to begin "fifteen before letter A" or "thirty-two after
number 12"!! That skill, and I do call it a skill, is something I can in no
way relate to!!

-Gary Ginstling
ginsuransom@-----.net