Re: [Harp-L] Open comment to Chris

[Philharpn@xxxxxxx]

Playing the perfect note requires the right emotion, and once you can fake 
that, you can play anything.

That is why people who don't speak the language can do a great job playing 
music that is not native to their culture -- i.e., anybody outside the U.S. who 
plays blues and jazz.

Some people claim other players can't play certain kinds of music because 
they don't have the right "soul" but more than likely it's a matter of 
understanding the right timing that goes with the music. This presents a problem to 
people who merely play the "right notes" but don't add a swing beat, or play after 
the beat or before the beat and cannot understand why their music doesn't 
"sound right."

Over the years, some people have played classical and jazz well in both 
camps. This is upsetting to some who thing the musician must chose between one or 
the other.

Sure, having the right emotion might help the performance. But it is not 
necessary.




In a message dated 10/1/05 5:25:08 PM, icemanle@xxxxxxx writes:


> Did anyone ever say or imply that choosing or playing a note is or should 
> be done without emotion?
> 
> Emotion is the breath of life that inflates the note(s).
> 
> Nothing wrong with consciously picking the perfect note and then playing (or 
> not playing) it, feeling your way forward - a fascinating trip - in a 
> combination head/heart at unique proportions per individual. Player becomes 
> observer and participant. Time seems to slow down. Ideas come through you which you 
> can shape when you learn their secrets - an intellectual and emotional 
> challenge worth the effort.
> 
> The Iceman
>