Are prog fans Musicians?

[prythm]

Thanks Kirk for the kudos.

I believe that music, as well as paintings, consist of two aspects- the art side and the craft side. The craft side refers to the technical facets of the composition, construction and performance of the piece. The art side is the spiritual, communicating, transcribed inspiration, subjective part. The art side, if the piece has some, is visible by anyone (at any age or IQ) although individually interpreted. I suggest that the technical side is appealing more to ‘technical’ people (people interested in process and/or structure and/or method and therefore deem the craft aspect as relevant to the substance of the piece).

As a musician I try to find a healthy balance of the two sides in my music as well as in my life. In this instance the technical side works in harmony with the artsy side, where both don’t disturb or consciously monitor the other (which is a tough thing to do).

I’m not saying that musicians that are more polar aren’t good though. Peter Gabriel, who admits he can’t find middle C, and writes two cord songs (Biko) is awesome because he is so good at the art (and not letting technical get in the way). The authentic music of Bach can be considered, by today’s standards, as truly technical however if you have insight into the craft and/or appreciate technical (I didn’t say intelligence) he can blow you away. Amazing stuff. Of course Bach on piano, as opposed to its native harpsichord, brings in an artistic performance element (Check out Keith Jarrett and his liner notes on balancing the right amount of art while realizing Bach’s music).

Note that I believe polarity, though it can spawn great art, can be a very bad and crippling thing though. Personally I believe balance is the key to art and life. Go with the flow but stay in the know.

KeithieW, sorry to hear about the 74 thing.