Klarinet Archive - Posting 000162.txt from 2011/01

From: Jenny Kimball <jennykimball@-----.net>
Subj: Re: [kl] Teaching and perception
Date: Mon, 17 Jan 2011 14:09:35 -0500

I know I'm a little late to chime in and smear my viewpoints on the list, but
this comment is regarding Michael's comments on "artificial" music.
I have to say I agree to a degree with your message, however there is a certain
kind of music that is not artificial, and not everyone I know can find this.
Music can be used to either heal or destroy, it is the listener/musician's
choice in that department. However, like all things, yes, it can be used as a
drug.

I call it music of the soul, being a rather spiritual and sentimental person, I
find deep healing and meaning in the music. As long as the music is not doing
harm or covering up an issue that must be solved externally, it is truly
healing.

Music can only harm one if it is misused, to escape from or magnify an issue, to
cover what one doesn't enjoy.

Classical music is better appreciated for it's technical beauty, absolutely. But
this rule does not apply to all music. Music is always there for you, like a
dear friend. It is what makes life beautiful.
Of course, not everyone finds such a thing in the music, as not everyone finds
meaning to Picasso's works. One must be born with the feel for the melody, it
can not be forced on oneself or on others.
Although I completely agree with Michael on Kathy's comment regarding the
stairway to heaven, there is absolutely nothing wrong with her finding that
meaning within herself and using the music in such a way. But it is true, that
meaning is personal and is not a good idea to teach that way, it can be
distracting and detrimental to the development of the student's personal
meaning.

Connection to the music is what is most important to me, I find a way to connect
with it, regardless of who/what is it's original author. It makes the whole
experience more enjoyable, adding an accent to the technical superiority.

(If you bothered to read all that, congratulations. You survived my
philosophical babbling and have been granted a cookie!)
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