Tag : Entertainment Tonight

WEDNESDAY’S WISH — MUSIC EDUCATION

Hi,

In a recent BBC Interview, “Elton John discusses his worry that TV propels acts into stardom who aren’t ready and who don’t have enough talent.”
Elton John’s interview statements mirror my longtime concerns for the youth of this world. After a TV ad during a recent airing of Entertainment Tonight, I feel compelled to express myself; as a professional musician, songwriter, composer, arranger, producer, and private music teacher. Professional means I get paid for what I do. With this bold stroke, I think that qualifies me to express a bit of a smoldering opinion on the topic.

Wednesday’s Wish: sharing it from my Facebook Music Page

I wish the television/pop entertainment media along with the Grammy Foundation had never created “Grammy Camp” for young people. This is not music education. There are two essential elements that an individual must have to earn the right to call themselves a musical “artist”. Those elements do not involve a microphone, a recording studio, or “developing a strategy that will incr…ease their chances at having a successful career in music.” Nothing replaces natural musical talent (a least a little) and hard work. Hard work defined as a regular structured practice schedule on your chosen instrument, voice included. One must study and learn about music — melody, rhythm, harmony, etc. And, if you are really meant to be a professional musician, it will not feel like practicing. Breaking it down, it means discipline devotion and direction on a daily basis for years and years. There is no easy fix, quick way, or substitute. Sorry Grammy Foundation. You need to teach music — not to aspire to be an overnight pop star. I am concerned about the kids. So misguided.

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