Hi Andrea, > While we're shipping people off, perhaps we could > ship off all those "specialized listeners" ...they > would realize that it's not all "pop" music and > could finally hear the difference between Jazz, > Blues, Rock, Heavy Metal, Alternative and pop, > etc..
Although we're using the term "specialized" listeners, this is not necesssarily the same thing as "otherwise ignorant." By nurturing your expertise in one area, I think you gain an appreciation of the whole spectrum. As a rock singer who is studying classical vocal technique, you've already stated that your listening has become (to vocal stuff anyway) just a bit finer. (I think you said that during the early era of the Church thread?)
I think there are many of us who can delve very deeply into a particular genre and continue to enjoy other kinds of music. I'm primarily a classical nerd, but, hey, I was listening to Nick Cave singing his Murder Ballads just the other day, and my friends are always amused by my devotion to the Beastie Boys.
Having stated all this, there are plenty of listeners who are "all ways ignorant," but they're probably this way in all parts of their lives. I for one generally don't respect the "ears of the general public." Does anyone on this list? Does anyone *anywhere* except for the record companies who stand to profit? I also don't pay attention to the bestselling books to figure out what to read or...I can't think of another good example. :) I respect the ears of the people that I respect, and I'm guessing that, as a musician, this is probably true for you?
why should the > general public give real opera a chance?
Because it's beautiful.
Cheers, Jen S.
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