| David,
This is a wonderful post which synthesizes many of the things I have believed for years and I'm so happy to see in print from a guy like Maynard. It applies beautifully to classical playing as well and reminiscent to me of my lessons with Mel Broiles regarding the upper register and sound production in general. I especially liked reading about Miles' initial "thoughts" because it's so typical of players reactions to "new" ideas. It was good to hear that he came back and desired clarification, too.
It also allays the nonsense that because Maynard "couldn't" teach his son to play, that he doesn't know what he's doing physically. How many of us were taught to drive by our dads? I don't know about you but for me, I remember my father getting very frustrated with me. Some people are receptive to what their parents tell them, some aren't. Some people are good at expressing themselves, others aren't. Some people have a way with words, others... uh, not have way.
Thanks, David.
ML |