[Harp-L] RE: 'the long road to understanding'

["Bill Otten" <harpman54@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

An interesting discussion/debate. While I think there is much to be learned
from 'rote' methods from the masters of the past and present, I have to also
endorse the ideas that Larry the Iceman puts forth. Years ago, while
attending Larry's Advanced Class at Davis & Elkins College Blues Week, Larry
got us (there were really only about 6 or 8 of us) to begin to consider
"playing outside the box". In other words, expressing ourselves and the
music we hear in our heads, rather than rote regurgitations of past masters.
Oh, we learned that too....I recall working on 'Juke' from that class also,
but the takeaway was not to be afraid of OUR own technique, OUR own voice on
the instrument. I think it opened up a distinct style for me, one that is
unique to me and yet still evolving. Later that week, Larry gave about a one
hour concert, where his teaching was demonstrably apparent. Where I
anticipated certain 'cliché' passages, they didn't come. But, there was
something else innovative in its place. Where I felt the music build toward
the inevitable resolution note or chording, instead came quiet...building
tension for the next passage. The rote method can get one to play a piece
precisely like some past master, and much can be learned. But to me it is
akin to these Elvis impersonators that abound....they can do that, but don't
offer up much originality if needed. 

bill otten