Klarinet Archive - Posting 000087.txt from 1999/02

From: "Steven J Goldman, MD" <gpsc@-----.com>
Subj: RE: [kl] Perfect Pitch
Date: Wed, 3 Feb 1999 07:34:49 -0500

There is no question that, while you can improve your ability to some
extent, "perfect pitch" is something that some people are born with, and
others just never get. While those who have it are very proud of it, I see
it as a party trick at best and a problem at worst. Now, since I play with
"original instrument" groups, perfect pitch would be a nightmare for me.
Depending on the instrument and group, I have to play at A 392, 410, 415,
430, 440.... One the other hand some degree of relative pitch is an absolute
necessity for a musician - the more the better. Close enough for jazz isn't
close enough for jazz. Luckily for us mere mortals, it is, as you say easier
to develop, although it is still easier for some than others. So be
satisfied with good relative pitch, and forget about the absolute stuff.

Steven Goldman
624 Huber Lane
Glenview, IL 60025

sjgoldman@-----.com

-----Original Message-----
From: Paulette W. Gulakowski [mailto:pollyg@-----.com]
Subject: Re: [kl] Perfect Pitch

I still can't "name that note" even though I've been exposed, practiced
etc. for many, many years. Colors are easy. I'm not sure that "perfect
pitch" is memory, but I do believe that "relative pitch" is. The more I
listen and try, the closer I get to relative pitch. I don't think
there's much chance I'll ever get to perfect - no matter what. Just my
opinion...
Paulette

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