[Dixielandjazz] Learning environment

[Vaxtrpts at aol.com]

But,  Charlie, why are you surprised at the public's lack of good sense,
good  taste and propriety?  We;ve been dumbed down, that's what!   I'll
avoid making a political statement, but you know damned well what  I'm
thinking.

Regards, Harold Smith



>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
There is nothing political about it, Harold.  Don't start with why  schools 
aren't as good as they used to be or anything like that; and how it is  the 
fault of the politicians and/or the teachers.  Anything to do with the  arts 
being dumbed down comes from record companies, PR firms, radio stations,  concert 
presenters...............and parents.
The kids are "dumbed down" way before they ever get into a school  situation. 
 
I still see a few kids in schools who care about "good" music, and the  
initial inspiration came from what their PARENTS and GRANDPARENTS got  them to 
listen to.  If the listening habits are formed early, it really  helps get young 
people thinking about music OTHER than what is shoved down their  throats by 
people in control of "The Biz" today.
So - here again - it has to come from the home environment before they ever  
get to school. (Same as a desire to actually learn from teachers!)
My two cents as a jazz educator.
Mike Vax