[Dixielandjazz] Solos and applause

[Bill Gunter]

Picky picky picky ...

Classical music isn't jazz . . . the conventions are different. 
Theoretically, one applauds at the conclusion of the symphony or concerto 
and not at the end of each movement or section. Only the unwashed do that 
but it's totally understandable . . . after all, the closing cadenza of the 
movement has been played and the music stops. Seems reasonable to applaud at 
that point. Matter of fact, I often feel rather stupid when, after a 
particularly great movement, I am just supposed to sit there mute and 
restrain my enthusiasm until the end of the last section. Of course, I 
silently pat myself on the back and am pleased with my superior tastes that 
I'm not one of those ignorant peasants who will applaud at anything. Is that 
dumb or what!!!

Shaw was a rigid perfectionist and jazz is loose and really invites audience 
involvement. One doesn't need an "authority" to tell one how to respond to 
music . . . one just does!!!!!  Sheesh!!!

Furthermore - If you wanna see total audience participation, go to a local 
rock concert and watch how everyone sits quietly until the last drum blast 
and then listen as they applaud appreciatively and with dignity and 
restraint. Yeah, right.

Respectfully submitted,

Bill "Wow! Love that Scherzo!" Gunter
jazzboard at hotmail.com