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From: msnyd~ature.snr.uvm.edu (Michael Snyder)
Date: Mon, 30 Sep 1996 10:35:49 -0400
Subject: Re: no fun was had by all

I'm intrigued by fjm's tale of Louie. I've certainly experienced similar
ordeals. Actually, I've experienced it from both sides -- I've been in
fjm's situation recently and, I suspect, in my sordid past I've also been a
Louie/Gus, annoying the hell out of good musicians while basking in the
warm adulation of yer less sophisticated audiences.

Thankfully, I now (at least) know how not to Gus, but I have attained such
lofty status not only because I am wise and open-minded. Indeed, I have
benefited from the concerted efforts of good musicians who showed (and
told) me just how much more there is to the harmonica than sucking and
blowing and wailing.

What I'd like to know is this: Could fjm's grim night out be (pardon the
phrase) a teachable moment? Was Louie a reasonable person? Could he have
responded well to some subtle or not so subtle form of assistance and
guidance? IOW, is it possible and reasonable in these circumstances for the
real harmonica player to stand up? Little doubt the Gus is doing DAMAGE
to the instrument. But, isn't there an opportunity -- if not an
obligation -- for the true player to do some GOOD for the instrument (or at
least some damage control)? I understand it can be touchy; nobody wants to
be a show off and all that but well, with all due respect to fjm who to me
is the Solomon of harp-L, everbody talks about Gus, but nobody wants to do
anything about him.

- --
Michael Snyder (msnyd~ature.snr.uvm.edu)
School of Natural Resources, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT. USA