I have to say, that the idea of “classical” or “art” music as somehow better, or more important than any other kind of music really bothers me. I’m even more bothered by some of the communities surrounding this kind of music who turn their nose up or worse at anyone who doesn’t recognize that “their music” is more important than any other kind of music.

To me, good music like any other art, is about what moves the audience. I know for many artists this would be a heretical statement, they see their art is a private practice and its quality determined either by their own experience in creating it, or by the reaction of a small peer group who “understand” what they’re doing.

And that’s fine, and I even think sometimes that that perspective can be useful at times during the creative process, but those artists need to realize that they are creating for what may be a very limited audience, and that doesn’t mean that there’s something wrong with the people who don’t like the work.

I don’t mean to be negative, I have been absolutely transfixed and transformed by music that I didn’t expect to like. I think that’s great when that happens, but I think that for that to happen requires the performers, and presenting organizations to be welcoming to people who are not already experienced listeners and lovers of the style being presented. Some of us may need a little bit of help in understanding what’s going on. Really good pre-concert lectures can make a huge difference in the enjoyment of music which is not otherwise easily accessible. Benjamin Zander with the Boston Philharmonic is a master of this, and virtually all of their concerts sell out, I suspect, in part because he’s willing to take the time to help people understand the music.

I realize that I’m becoming very long-winded here, and I have more to say on this topic which I think is really important, so I think I’ll take this to my blog — if you’re interested please check it out http://andydolph.com.
Andy Dolph´s last blog ..Victor Borge, The Great Dane – A YouTube Concert

This post was mentioned on Twitter by thetinysoprano: NEW blog post: Can Art Afford To Ignore An Audience? http://bit.ly/bfD5GV...

I’ve known incredibly talented artists who shirk at the thought of introducing “certain people” to their medium. The thinking has been that to do so, particularly to those who don’t travel in certain circles, would cheapen the art or degrade the community who originally supported it.

I think this is bullshit. How else are we to offer opportunities for learning and discovery if we’ve determined ahead of time who is worthy and who is not? I wouldn’t have an appreciation and love for Rachmaninoff if it weren’t for a chance meeting with a pianist in a GYM of all places. If he’d have sized me up in my ratty gym pants and sweaty t-shirt, I never would have had the hours and hours of auditory pleasure I’ve experienced, nor would I have had the pleasure of an incredibly deep and meaningful friendship.

My experience has been that classically rooted artists are a relatively insular group. I WANT to learn and I WANT to understand. Share with me so that I can do so and then share that brilliance with others.

After all, isn’t that what art, in every form, is for?
Erica´s last blog ..erica_swanson: My h-town and I watched this. DURING DINNER. Yes, it’s that good. http://ow.ly/11ZnH TED talk: creativity and our children’s education.