riffing on RNZ music headlines
- Amanda Riddell
- May 17, 2023
- 2 min read
Well, as my Bandcamp page says: I'm not really a 'classical' musician atm. Different mediums... bedroom pop is a thing. I doubt the intimacy of my tapes is replicable for a live gig, and honestly I don't really want to find out -- my xp is that people prefer my tapes to my live music, and that's how I got famous. 🤣
So, while some of you may wish me to give a recital, that's not happening. However, I'll probs run through some of the NZ guitar album tunes at Wellington Classical Guitar Society. And possibly at Parliament: I'd need a portable music stand. -
I think that live performances usually result in flattering reviews. Charisma can overcome a mediocre interpretation or poor technique for a live gig, while the tapes are stark and accurate.
I like Paul Lewis, but I'm not going to bloody Beethoven concerti.
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I'm also not playing Pan's Preludes myself. I've been clear that that's not what's happening.
Again, that's this bullshit auteur cult thing that classical music is obsessed with, while I think that for practical/professional reasons another guitarist should premiere the piece.
If I'd been commissioned, it'd be a different discussion, but I wasn't. Have faith in Chris rather than me -- that's my wero.
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Also, I disagree with Elizabeth Kerr. I think that strongly worded criticism is essential, because otherwise our musical culture is too nice, and that breeds complacency. I've only written one negative review, and I thought that was an articulate mini-essay. Plus, given the way I was trained (with harsh criticism), I'm not one to spare the rod. - Ultimately, I still think RNZ Concert is a waste of money, and I've generally opposed the mainstream of classical music for several years. Which is why I migrated to other genres that are more fun and less bitchy. 👋
It's not replicable. It simply isn't.
Because even with a microphone, it's impossible to replicate the binaural thing.
It'll never feel like I'm whispering in your ear live.