I was just thinking about how music is so unusual in its power to draw people together. This in itself is not really surprising, at least for those of us involved in the business. We see it first-hand. People who enjoy a particular band or musician attend a show, not as individuals, but as a crowd who share a common thing. Before, after and at breaks, they talk with strangers and friends alike about the music. People rarely spend an evening going on and on about the particular entree special or the draft of the month. Okay, there are certain Peel-your-own-shrimp nights and other events that draw customers, but not quite the same way. With food and coupons or atmosphere, people are drawn to a place, not each other. Does the steak taste better if the club is full? Not likely, but the joy of the music and fellowship in a crowded (not over-crowded) room somehow enhances the experience.
Music is not meant to be enjoyed alone. This is why so many people share (often illegaly) music they enjoy. Even if the friend is not there, just knowing that they at some point listened to the song gives one a sense of community. People join singing groups like choirs, whether at a church or community, not necessarily to be heard, but to enjoy the company of others enjoying music. And then there are those who go to hear them. We are social creatures and somehow music binds us together.
Given the knowledge of this power, which you surely already realized, isn't it odd that some establishments see live music as an expense which needs to be cut rather than an asset? There are those venues who understand this and appreciate live music and if all else is in order - the food, the service - they will do well even in this economy.
Jim Meck
Jim will be appearing at Valentino's on Feb. 27th at 8PM. Go to www.jimmeck.com for more info.
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Jim,
ReplyDeleteYour Blog is a refreshing look into what seems to be missed by many. Music is indeed human. No matter what culture you are, or time period you are from, we all have this one common bond. As communities grow more and more diverse it is one thing that we all have.
On a different note...
In your last post about music dieing, I am reminded about how the school district I came up through is suffering. While at one time, one of the most decorated and accomplished music programs on the east coast, it is now looking more and more like it will have the same fate as many others. Facing a 40% budget cut, music teachers are writing editorials to local papers just to try and save their once amazing department.
All we can do is keep trying to get the word out in our area as you do with every post and every performance. Our district has such an excellent history for the arts, and we do not want to end up with the same fate. Keep up the great work and keep posting my Monday morning wakeup calls.
-Jason VanVoorhis
BHASD High School
Instrumental Music Teacher