Posted by Patrick J. McKenna on November 14, 2002 at 23:17:01:
In Reply to: Re: Keep the Harmonica Alive posted by noob on November 14, 2002 at 16:32:57:
: : I enjoy listening to and playing the blues just as much as just about anyone. Blues music has been around before any of us were born and not only will survive, but outlive any of us, despite of, or in a very minute way, possibly through our efforts.
: : I would like to see the harmonica get at least a fraction of the respect that it so richly deserves.
: : The harmonica should not be forced to retreat to the clubrooms or further into the wilds for campfire sing alongs with some Cub Scout pack.
: : In addition to the blues, for which I think that most of us share a passion, there is classical, pop, C&W and Gospel music.
: : Besides Jon Gindick, Kim Wilson and Charlie Musselwhite, Claude Garden, Robert Bonfiglio and Charlie McCoy also deserve their share of the spotlight.
: : As for me, the one time that I played outside in the country, was not at at some camp. It was at the burial of a fellow security officer. After the choir sang, I played two verses (in the 1st position) of "Amazing Grace." Those in attendance, especially my friends, were surprised. They, along with our Chief, Lieutenant, Sergeant, co-workers, the Pastor and most importantly, the family of deceased, appreciated my rendition of "Amazing Grace."
: what is wrong about playing at camps? i think camping is great and one of the most attractive things about the harmonica for me is that it can be taken anywhere, even on camps. it doesnt be-little the harmonica to be played at a cub scout camp!
Hey Noob,
There's nothing wrong with camping. Of course, I'm all in favor of making music at camp, with instruments from kazoos to guitars or whatever your instrument of choice might be.
If you use the the harmonica to get children
interested in music, that's great. If your fellow campers are adults, well there's nothing wrong with that either! Exposure to music doesn't have to start in a classroom.
During my Naval career, I used to play harmonica while waiting for military and civilian logistics flights not to mention whenever work, time and the absence of supervision from my seniors permitted.
I just would appreciate it if others would learn what most of already know, and that is that the harmonica deserves to be respected as a serious instrument...and suitable for occasions from campfire singalongs with the Cub Scouts to classical recitals before a blueblooded audience of musical aristocrats.
I hope that this clears up any misunderstandings.
Wishing you success in your endeavors,
Patrick