[Harp-L] re: needs some help



Richard Hunter makes some very valid observations. I respect him as a player
and his opinions. I just have a few few thoughts.

1) "Customers" is a great word to throw around especially when discussing
whose rights are more valid. I find my self never looking at the attendees
of a harmonica festival as customers. In my mind they are PARTICIPANTS. They
themselves are part of the event. Every one of them no matter their playing
level.

2) When folks like Richard "give back" as they say there is always a
"return" motive. Human nature. My guess is that Richard gives plenty with
much thought on the returns. Students, notoriety, product sales etc. At SPAH
our return is $45. for a years membership and a hope that they may come
again to participate and carry on a half-century tradition.

3) I am excited to try and be the first one to purchse a ticket to the well
organized and professionally publicized Richard Hunter Harmonica Festival
when it appears on the calendar. I love being a demanding customer. I will
expect the best bang for my buck possible.NO exceptions. I also hope he
doesn't loose his shirt. Driving well over 400+ attendees at an event with a
much heaftier price tag might be a challenge. The advertising budget will
not be small to pull off and "make the numbers".

4) Richard brings up one of the most important points in this discussion.
THE FUTURE OF HARMONICA EVENTS. My guess is that if folks like Richard
succeed in creating a bigger, better festival with all of the bells and
whistles that there will be an instant "nostalgia" for the good old days by
many. Integrating Big pop stars and larger crowds into the "established
tradition" will bring on a whole new set of issues that the paying customers
will have to deal with and perhaps complain about, like: a) it's too noisy
in the halls to talk and jam like the old days. b) these big stars are fun
but their "enterages" and security combined with many non harp playing fans
just  makes things a little less "rewarding to the soul" like the old days.
c) the big stars come and go fast, how come they don't hang and jam with us
like the "real superstars" used to do? d) darn, I had to sit 50 rows back to
see Stevie Wonder last night, I kinda like being in the first 20 rows of an
intimate venue and being able to meet the star right away as he/she comes
off stage.

5) APPLES & ORANGES time again. We already have the harmonica apple
orchards. Create a harmonica orange grove with a different brand and flavor.
These fruits don't have to compete for the taste buds of the public. Choice!
Thinking that the new and improved oranges will make apples obsolete is not
reality.

Once again. Respect to Richard. My passion is high this morning and I like
the fact that we are all participating in a discussion about these issues
and concerns.

WB



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