quote:
Originally posted by DorianGreyed:Let‘s see which of the two is remembered 50 years from now.
I should like to think, BOTH of them. I have heard Marsalis play classical & jazz, and he is absolutely stunning. Technically he is the best trumpet player I have ever heard.
One little point: I cannot understand someone of Miles' stature and abilities being reduced to threatening physical thuggery as a reaction to criticism of his professional capabilities.
Obviously it is taken as read that I never reached the lofty heights in my playing career attained by these two outstanding performers. Nevertheless, when musically criticised on occasion (yes it happened once or twice!) I simply thought, can I learn from this? Is there an area in my musical equipment which needs improving? If not, well, OK, each is entitled to his or her own opinion. I see no point in beating up the ones who perceive flaws in my armoury.
I also have an uneasy feeling about the details of this story (which I know you recount in all good faith, DG).
Would someone of Marsalis' reputation go on record as seriously criticising Miles' ability, and then appear on stage with him? Possible, yes, young men can be arrogant and brash and shoot their mouths off. Yet to then walk onto a public stage and confront the object of their criticism...?...
Many excellent musicians who worked with me professionally over 16 years thought I was wonderful at the time, several more thought I was average, or at best, musically limited. That's life. I never win them all. Nowadays most of my pupils seem to think that I am a very good teacher. However, over the past 20 years several who started with me and made little progress have gone to other teachers and done very much better.
We can only do our best, but the idea of going and smacking a teacher who achieves more than me, or a pupil who says that his new teacher is far better than I am is simply laughable.
The world is big enough for these two giants, plus a thousand more. Let us celebrate each others' skills and attainments, rather than search out and decry the limitations...
