I miss Mr. Phillips dearly.
snorlax wrote:This article reminds me of aspect #487963 of the greatness of Harvey Phillips: He realized fully that artistry and practicality were not mutually exclusive and were indeed synergistic. He lived that throughout his professional life and stressed that to his students.
Thanks, Harvey.
I might add that I have tried to take lessons with several "artists"--privately and in workshops--and the experiences were less than pleasant. Many "artists" simply can't/won't work with people such as myself who do not desire to play "serious low brass music." Some of us just want to become better players in the styles of music we like, but many "artist" types can't understand that. Their world of musical concepts is limited in scope to what they do, and their skill allows them to thrive in that world.
Having said that, there are enough "aspiring low brass artists who want to play serious low brass literature" that these "artists" will have a constant flow of students and don't have to deal with any other type of student.
Though I maintain a constant desire to improve, I will not attend a "low brass workshop or symposium" again, nor will I consult with an "artist" again.
I had one short lesson with Doug Elliott as he was driving through my area, and I appreciated his approach, especially since he didn't begin my lesson by telling me "that's not what a euphonium is supposed to sound like" or "you really shouldn't play that kind of stuff in public." I'd put him in the "artistic and practical" category.