Klarinet Archive - Posting 000028.txt from 2010/12

From: "Keith Bowen" <keith.bowen@-----.com>
Subj: Re: [kl] Snake Charmers
Date: Fri, 03 Dec 2010 03:46:45 -0500

I think there are two huge exceptions.

One is in chamber music, where you have to communicate your rhythm and
expression to the other players. Usually this is done before the entry, so
aural clues alone are not enough. Of course, excessive movement is
distracting, but appropriate movement (from the pelvis, as it aids breathing
and posture) is useful and necessary. The model of course is a string
quartet.

The other is Les Bons Becs. Has anyone seen their amazing show? It isn't
just movement, it is choreographed gymnastics, and one of the most musical
and exciting entertainments I have seen.

Movement can be another way of communicating with the audience. As long as
it is about the music rather than about the player.

Keith

-----Original Message-----
From: Kevin Fay [mailto:kevin.fay.home@-----.net]
Sent: 03 December 2010 05:30
To: 'The Klarinet Mailing List'
Subject: Re: [kl] Snake Charmers

Jim Lytthans posted:

<<<Once I heard David Shifrin play the K. 622 locally. He really moved about
with the famed Shifrin Squat, until he let out a gigantic squeak. During the
rest of the concerto he stood perfectly still......>>>

Methinks that Jim has hit the nail on the head.

If a little movement helps your performance, why, go for it. I can
understand how a bit of kinetic engagement can help with rhythm, expression,
even add to the show.

OTOH, there are only a few pieces that actually call for a clarinet player
to dance whilst playing - Stockhausen's "Harlekin" (Harlequin) comes to
mind.

I have had the opportunity to watch a number of fine groups - for film work,
and orchestral recording sessions too - and was struck by how different
people behaved when the recorded sound was paramount and there was no
audience to watch. Musicians moved less. Conductors - a *lot* less
dancing, a lot more careful delineation of the rhythm. No odd facial
distortions, agony or orgasm with the baton put down.

I don't go to concerts to watch people play; I'd rather hear them.

kjf

_______________________________________________
Klarinet mailing list
Klarinet@-----.com
To do darn near anything to your subscription, go to:
http://klarinet-list.serve-music.com

__________ Information from ESET Smart Security, version of virus signature
database 5669 (20101203) __________

The message was checked by ESET Smart Security.

http://www.eset.com

__________ Information from ESET Smart Security, version of virus signature
database 5669 (20101203) __________

The message was checked by ESET Smart Security.

http://www.eset.com

_______________________________________________
Klarinet mailing list
Klarinet@-----.com
To do darn near anything to your subscription, go to:
http://klarinet-list.serve-music.com