Comments on: The lost art of subtlety? http://rachelvelarde.com/2009/10/11/the-lost-art-of-subtlety/ Lyric Mezzo-Soprano Wed, 19 May 2010 18:04:48 -0700 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.0 By: Ian http://rachelvelarde.com/2009/10/11/the-lost-art-of-subtlety/comment-page-1/#comment-43 Ian Mon, 12 Oct 2009 04:40:59 +0000 http://rachelvelarde.com/?p=477#comment-43 I don't know that subtlety has been totally lost. If we listen to many of the best singers in the world, we will find plenty of subtle artistry. But because it is so subtle, it's not what many listeners first consciously hear. Sometimes we hear the WORST in other singers and think that is what made the great because it's the easiest to copy! If it's not the worst, then it's the flashiest aspects that are copied. High notes come immediately to mind (or triple pirouettes to continue your dance thread). Overall though, we should sing with such artistry that the high notes become of secondary importance to the overall musical integrity with which we sing. But that takes a lot more work. I'm looking forward to more about your NYC trip! I don’t know that subtlety has been totally lost. If we listen to many of the best singers in the world, we will find plenty of subtle artistry. But because it is so subtle, it’s not what many listeners first consciously hear. Sometimes we hear the WORST in other singers and think that is what made the great because it’s the easiest to copy!

If it’s not the worst, then it’s the flashiest aspects that are copied. High notes come immediately to mind (or triple pirouettes to continue your dance thread).

Overall though, we should sing with such artistry that the high notes become of secondary importance to the overall musical integrity with which we sing. But that takes a lot more work.

I’m looking forward to more about your NYC trip!

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