Klarinet Archive - Posting 000300.txt from 2004/10

From: Richard Bush <rbushidioglot@-----.net>
Subj: Re: [kl] Differing skill levels
Date: Sat, 9 Oct 2004 17:55:24 -0400

Adam,

I really like what you wrote. I also appreciate your taking the time to
write it out so well, to be so articulate.

One point you talk about is that it is OK to be less than professional,
to be at a lower skill level. I've seen this a lot with community
groups. Some of the players will never be great but they're having a
good time. They are enjoying being participants and making music to the
best of their ability. This is good.

When individuals do not play to the best of their ability and also have
no desire to improve, I take issue. This kind of attitude makes me mad.
I've always been taught to give everything I have when honoring
commitments.

For many, playing in a community band or orchestra that is not very
good, is a self fulfilling prophecy. When communities or cities are
large enough, there will be many such groups. When there are several,
they will be at different playing levels. Somehow, people, like water
seek their own level. For those who must participate in the "only game
in town," it is very frustrating when a few drag the group to a much
poorer performance level.

The universal question will always be, "How do we motivate those who
revel in their own mediocrity to improve?"

Richard Bush
rbushidioglot@-----.net

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