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riffing on RNZ music headlines

  • Writer: Amanda Riddell
    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. 👋

 
 
 

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1 Comment


Amanda Riddell
Amanda Riddell
May 17, 2023

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.

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