Re: [Harp-L] review of "Paul Butterfield Teaches Blues Harmonica Masterclass"

["Paul F. Sehorne" <paul@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

On at, 28 Jan 2006 18:29:27 -0800 Don Grubbs wrote
>> I never liked critizing someone who did a better job than I could have 
done.

I knew when I criticized Butterfield's work that there was a better than 
good possibility of offending some Harp-L'ers, but as a consumer spending 
my money I DO criticize those 'who did a better job than I could have done' 
when their product or service is disappointing.  If I subscribed to above 
philosophy I would not be entitled to criticize anyone who sells me an 
inferior product or service just because I personally could not do better - 
whether that someboby be a music teacher, carpenter, lawn groomer, auto 
repairman, etc.

I was not criticizing Butterfield for his musicianship or commitment.  If I 
had purchased the product (as I have many music harmonica CDs) for the 
listening value and as a example of something worth while to try to 
emulate, I would not have been disappointed.  As has been said here there 
is a lot of good stuff on the CD to listen to and try to emulate, but from 
an instructional standpoint it is lacking.  I purchased 'Paul Butterfied 
Blues Band' and 'East-West' CDs and am not disappointed because they live 
up to their expected purpose.  But 'Paul Butterfield Teaches Blues 
Harmonica Masterclass' , as an instructional course, did not live up to its 
purpose.  Did it have great examples?  Yes.  Did it have great 
instructional value. No.

I didn't criticize the product just to complain.  I feel that other 
students should know what to expect.  If after reading my 'review' and the 
replies to it in this forum, someone chooses to purchase the product they 
will not be disappointed.  If however, they, like me, purchase it expecting 
instruction, they will be disappointed.  For $15 I spend it is worth it, 
and maybe more, for the reasons Don has pointed out.

For instructional value I still feel that even at four times the price 
Portnoy's product is the better value.

No offence meant from this front either.  I'm just enjoying this forum 
where many contrary and informative opinions can be found and enjoyed.

Paul



Paul