Re: Standardizing Skill Levels

[Douglas Tate <douglas.tate@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Having a structured route through the learning process on any instrument 
with milestones in the form of 'grades' or 'level' does not discourage any 
one, the teacher does that!!

Just because there is a grading system doesn't mean you have to take it or 
pay any attention to it.

However, the point has been made that some form of formalised tuition and 
standardisation does help to fast track students through the bewildering 
mire of what to do next.

The good teacher uses the 'system' as a backbone on which to hang exciting 
musical projects which encourage diversification of thought and experience 
whilst establishing a firm foundation of technique and musical knowledge in 
the particular path being taken.  One of my pupils comes to me from a great 
distance to have formal tuition in harmonica techniques, formal instruction 
in the interpretation of the various eras in music etc... then he goes 
home, does his general school music, plays in the school jazz band, 
orchestra and folk groups in his town. It certainly doesn't seem to faze HIM.

However, this sort of education, level setting, formality is not for 
everyone... not only that, not everyone can get at someone who will take 
themm through it!

Also mentioned have been suggested ideas for levels (some more serious than 
others :))  Just looking at them shows how people suggest what is relevant 
to them and not, possibly, what could make up a generalized approach.

There is no doubt that a ladder system, properly laid out and adhered to 
would 'raise' the harmonica in the eyes of the general music community. 
(However, the only REAL way to gain esteem is to beat the socks off them 
with musical standards that they can't reach... and we have one or two 
people who can do that without formal training.

In some way  this 'argument' is like the one about reading music... there 
are plenty of points of view... but it is a fact that reading helps you to 
grasp a wider repertire more quickly than just listening.   AND without 
listening you haven't got a clue what to do with the reading.
A formal system rigidly adhered to is useless without allowing and 
encouraging the exploration of everything within and outside the system.

OK... YMMV :))

Douglas t