Re: [Harp-L] end vs. means (was instrument often mistaken for a harmonica)

[Richard Hammersley <rhhammersley@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

However, an acordina seems to cost about $1000
On 8 Dec 2008, at 03:00, Paul Bowering wrote:

> The instrument in this clip did indeed sound harp like. This raises  
> a larger issue for me. Namely, the relative importance of how a  
> piece of music is created versus the end product. While a single  
> clip isn't definitive it seems self evident that an acordina allows  
> for quicker, cleaner play than a 10-hole. (I'm not familiar with  
> this instrument. Does it typically have a button board?) I've not  
> ever played a melodica but aside from bends I would think this also  
> a more precise way to create a 'harmonica' part which might better  
> suit some styles of music. Am I correct or have I completely missed  
> the point. I hope I am wrong because I have an affinity for  
> harmonica but I don't want to be hung up on sentiment.
>
> I guess I'm basically wondering how much emphasis is to be placed on  
> performance or if a piece of music should be appreciated simply for  
> how it stands on its own. I seem to recall Jonathan Ross making the  
> case a couple years back that todays consumer cares much less than  
> previous eras for the virtuoso. They just want something they can  
> listen to and enjoy whether made by man or machine. (Hope I got that  
> right Jonathan; you'll correct me if I'm wrong.)
>
> So, should we drop the tin sandwich for melodicas or acordinas? Do  
> we need real strings and electric basses when we can just play  
> synths. They're perhaps not as nuanced but they have become rather  
> convincing over the past number of years. I don't know if the  
> general public can discern the difference.
>
> Maybe it doesn't matter. We all enjoy playing the thing and that  
> might be enough. Still, personal satisfaction can be quite distinct  
> from shared musical experience and if there are easier or more  
> efficient ways to get there...
>
>
> Paul
>
>
>
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Richard Hammersley
Grantshouse, Scottish Borders
http://www.last.fm/music/Richard+Hammersley
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