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From: Fred_Syl
Date: Tue, 21 Dec 1999 22:17:26 -0600
Subject: A Harp-L V thought

I've listened through the Harp-L V CD's about half-a-dozen times now.
Obviously there's lots of great harp playing on these CD's, but one
other aspect comes through that I'll try to verbalize here. On almost
every cut, there is something to learn (at least at my level), In many
cases, it is great riffs, runs or rhythmic work. But in many other
cases it is just fairly simple harp playing that fits in well with the
song. I guess on close listening, I am impressed that some of the
simpler things sound so good. While (of course) I like some cuts better
than others, I think the folks that contributed to these CD's did a
great job of making the harp fit in musically. And, to my mind, much of
that has to do with "playing within yourself". What they are doing is
playing the harp well, no matter what the level. Simple phrasing,
tastefully and expressively applied, sure sounds a lot better than
over-reaching for that technically challenging passage and coming up
short (which I'm afraid I may be guilty of at times). Lots to be said
for having command of the instrument but staying within the context of
the song and the limits of your skills.

Don't get me wrong - there's brilliant playing and "on the edge" stuff
here too, that's great and inspiring. (And I'm sure not one to advocate
not pushing the envelope of what you are capable of). I just find it
equally inspiring how good the harp can sound with some simple and solid
playing as well. Maybe that's one of the bestt things about such a
compilation. Sure, it's fun and challenging to listen to and emulate
the super harp playing in our favorite CD collections, but a compilation
which showcases a good selection by pros, semi-pros, semi-amateurs,
hobbyists, etc., is really useful as a benchmark for where you are in
your playing, and how effective you are at applying what you know to
making good music. That's hard to find anywhere else.

I don't know whether this makes any sense or not, but thanks again to
Van and all the contributors for sharing their efforts.

Fred