Re: [Harp-L] Joe Filisko

[Vern <jevern@xxxxxxx>]

Whenever Joe steps on the stage, he delivers an interesting, often original performance with superb musicianship.  Whenever you ask him a question, you get a thoughtful answer delivered with courteous attention.  He'll bring you a drink of water at SPAH.

Vern

On Nov 2, 2013, at 12:50 PM, Grant Dermody <gdermody@xxxxxxxxx> wrote:

> Joe is a treasure,
> All he has done for the harmonica and its players can not be measured.
> Joe has his own voice as a player and as he hones his songwriting abilities, that voice deepens.
> He's also a tough Chicago guy and doesn't get rocked by a little criticism.
> All the best to all
> Grant Dermody
> 
> On Nov 2, 2013, at 12:18 PM, Richard Hunter <turtlehill@xxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:
> 
>> Mick Zaklan wrote:
>>> Probably the best written piece I've seen on Joe Filisko.  Also the only
>>> time I've ever heard Joe's approach to the instrument criticized by
>>> anyone.
>> 
>> First, it's nice to see a piece on Joe that emphasizes his skills as a player and teacher, as opposed to a customizer.
>> 
>> Second, the "criticism" accounts for a very small part of the article, and what it basically says is that the person issuing the criticism would prefer that Joe devote less of his attention to traditional styles.  
>> 
>> I'm reminded of what Stravinsky said about Bela Bartok in 1959, years after Bartok's death. "I never could share his lifelong gusto for his native folklore... I couldn't help regretting it in the great musician."  Didn't seem to hurt Bartok's rep much; if anything, the statement made Stravinsky seem petty and envious. 
>> 
>> Regards, Richard Hunter
>> 
>> author, "Jazz Harp" (Oak Publications, NYC)
>> Latest mp3s and harmonica blog at http://hunterharp.com
>> Vids at http://www.youtube.com/user/lightninrick
>> Twitter: lightninrick
>