I found the entry bizzarre to say the least. Classical music certainly can be elitest but I think most music types have their own sense of elitism - try turning up dressed inthe wrong gear to a dance or hard rock concert for example. I also think classical music has worked hard over the last few years to move more into the mainstream - proms in the park being an example. You're always going to have fans who stick their noses up at you but that's true in every area of life - rather than simply criticising it we need to ask why people consistently do this.
Perhaps Steve T needs to simply be grateful he has friends who seek to gear what music they play to what they think he might like - the alternative is often far worse.
Interesting you feel that way, Matt - I'd have thought you'd be ranting against elitism too! I know what you mean about the tribal nature of music following, but I've just never come across the same level of snootiness in folkies or rockers that I find in (some/many, but not all) classical buffs.
I hate elitism but I don't think simply highlighting it in one area is the answer or simply ranting against it. We have to look at what causes it and see how we can change that.
It's good to have you back blogging again after your summer break!
I found the entry bizzarre to say the least. Classical music certainly can be elitest but I think most music types have their own sense of elitism - try turning up dressed inthe wrong gear to a dance or hard rock concert for example. I also think classical music has worked hard over the last few years to move more into the mainstream - proms in the park being an example. You're always going to have fans who stick their noses up at you but that's true in every area of life - rather than simply criticising it we need to ask why people consistently do this.
ReplyDeletePerhaps Steve T needs to simply be grateful he has friends who seek to gear what music they play to what they think he might like - the alternative is often far worse.
Interesting you feel that way, Matt - I'd have thought you'd be ranting against elitism too! I know what you mean about the tribal nature of music following, but I've just never come across the same level of snootiness in folkies or rockers that I find in (some/many, but not all) classical buffs.
ReplyDeleteI hate elitism but I don't think simply highlighting it in one area is the answer or simply ranting against it. We have to look at what causes it and see how we can change that.
ReplyDeleteIt's good to have you back blogging again after your summer break!
No - you miss the point of a good rant - it makes you feel better! Nothing lits my spirits more than a good moan
ReplyDelete