Re: [Harp-L] was Shakin' Smith - coaching learning harp players editorial

[icemanle@xxxxxxx]

> Shakin' Smith didn't have time for learning harp players here in Buffalo at
> all. Many -all- were sent packing. This is far too much screen time for him.
>                                                                               
            TimM in Rapids

  Tim
        You're right and wrong....Right about Shake not having time to coach  
" learning harp players, here in Buffalo" >>
 
 
Where is the rule that says "If you are a professional musician, you are obligated to teach/coach those that approach you on the gig"?
 
This "harmonica players are the most gracious and giving community" mindset has a nice ring to it, but is it based on truth or on a concept of what would be nice?
 
Believe it or not, the same is said for those in the banjo, guitar, Barbershop Quartet, Sweet Adelines, washboard, jazz education, Anthony Robbins, work-out/fitness, etc etc communities.
 
"generous and giving" is not a mandatory requirment. Not everyone is comfortable teaching or sharing. This is human nature - neither good nor bad. It just "is".
 
Don't condemn those that don't fit your preconceived notion of how they should be.
 
Besides, it is impossible to know that the motivation is behind a reluctance to teach/coach/share unless you spend time getting to know the individual. It could be insecurity on the part of the artist, a phone call earlier that day indicating that the IRS is doing an audit, indigestion from a corn-dog for lunch, a grouchy mood, or a million other personal reasons. 
 
Maybe, just maybe, the artist IS an a**hole. SO WHAT. It is nothing personal, and why should this fact diminish the experience of enjoying the music? Perhaps his message to the aspiring musician is that they should do their own work at this time and seek out a teacher more suited to their learning.
 
The RaveMan