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Re: the level of orchestras in the states

Author: Keil
Date: 2004-05-15 18:12

I think as a whole the question really isn't "who's better" but which do you find inspiring/moving/beautiful? Of course that is quite subjective and can't adequately be treated in a short post. I think the biggest qualm I have with the Big 5, is that they are known as the Big 5 and thusly lose that extra sparkle that one can find somewhere else. With all the hype it's so easy for an organization to fall under the expectations. I've consistenly found that no matter how celebrated a group maybe I'm always left feeling underwhelmed only because it's impossible for someone to reach your expectations when your expecations aren't necessarily theirs. I find it's best to just enjoy each group for who they are and what they have accomplished as an individual unit of a greater whole. Also, another issue i have with Big named groups is that often times their performances aren't consistently excellent due to lackluster execution or just an overall level of discontent. It's like the great debate sports enthusiasts often times find themselves embroiled in, college leagues versus professional. People argue that the college leagues are better because they play with more heart, it's not a job for them but a way of life, it's a passion they're still trying to reach the top, whereas those at the top, the professionals, have nothing to strive for because they're already at the top. It's good but lacks something in the passion department. Granted the professionals maybe better overall with fewer mistakes but the passion with which the college level groups play with make-up for any skill they may or may not be lacking. No one is playing for a paycheck there, it's all drive and motivation. This is probably why lesser known groups are so beautiful to listen to. They don't have the reputation to worry about, they can take risks and play with passion because it's not about the check at the end of the week but the music making throughout.
Cheers

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