New Efforts
In defense of music criticism and performance reviews
The famed composer Leonard Bernstein once stated, "I've been all over the world and I've never seen a statue of a critic." While this sentiment is usually a quotable source of affirmation for those in the performing arts, it also suggests that music critics are not worth remembering.
To this I would push back, if only a little. As one who does perform, teaches it, and is married to an active performer (you may check him out at JayPoff.com) - I understand the sentiment of Bernstein. It is hard to read a review of one's performance and question all of the artistry involved. However, what is interesting is that most artists that I know who are prominent in the industry also use these same pontifications when the review is good. By default, the artist is giving the music critic/performance review validity by plastering what they had to say on their respected websites.
As a performer, I am a huge advocate for music critics and music criticism in general. In fact, so much so that I have put forth two dedicated years of studying graduate level writing so I could attempt to understand this particular world of journalistic opinion.
In discussing with my graduate advisor (a genius writer and professor) about the negative overview of critics in the performing arts, I was made aware that every area in our daily lives has room for criticism. I thought about this at length and it was very clear to me that there are endless opportunities for criticism, review, and opinions.
Some examples... Do we have book reviews? Do we have ratings of stars for restaurants? Do we have sportscasters reviewing the plays of athletes and commenting thusly? Do we have work performance evaluations in the 9-5 office job? Do we opine about political differences both on and off the television screen? I would assume yes to all of these. Why would music and live performances be any different? Is it because they are so personal and sensitive in nature?
In our humanistic sensibilities we have a tendency to be overly protective of our art. In essence, that is a good thing. However, one can become blighted to one's capabilities or settle into indifference. No one is exempt of loving their career only for it to become a duty bound effort - artists included. Critics can give an outside perspective and performance standards which will enable the artist stay motivated to their craft, that is if they can handle the critique. Criticism is actually a beneficial contribution to the performing arts and the artists within them.
As much as I adore Leonard Bernstein, I don't think his quote holds much merit when it comes to this particular topic. While critics in the performing world are not monumentalized by statues or plaques, their words carry weight in the performing arts and that's monumental in itself.
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