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RE: Debussy Rhapsodie

Author: GBK
Date: 2002-10-10 11:45

Greg has nicely elaborated and delineated the fine line between historical accuracy and the job of the performer.

In writing a specific piece a composer makes thousands of choices. Should a ritard happen on a specific note? Should a crescendo extend an extra 2 beats? Should a held note be 4 beats or 5? etc., etc., etc...

The performer, in turn, faces the daunting task of trying to convey these wishes within the historical context of the piece. When the performer decides to depart from the composer's instructions "ad libitum" then the music ceases to be the composer's any longer, and violates the intent of the author.

If however the music is performed as written, then the music will take over on its own merits. As, for example, no two performers execute a ritard, or crescendo exactly the same way, thus lies the subtleties which separate the average performance from the memorable - that innate ability to take the listener along a truly sculptured and informed musical journey.

As an analogy, I am reminded of the job of a referee in a sports event. Let the action play out, but subtlely control it, shape it, and guide it. Never being overbearing to a point where you are more important than the larger overall picture...GBK

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2002-10-10 02:19