The Pursuit of Musical Passion: Favorite Instruments Outside Our Repertoire
Every musician is a journeyman, constantly seeking new realms of expression within the vast universe of music. While some have cherished instruments that they play with dedication and passion, others have secret desires and dreams of mastering instruments they do not currently play. In this article, we explore the choices of musicians who wish to explore different strains of musical passion. From the rich twang of the pedal steel guitar to the soulful melodic lines of the cello and clarinet, we uncover the unique reasons behind their musical yearnings.
The Pedal Steel Guitar: A Multidimensional Masterpiece
For many, the talented guitarist may find the pedal steel guitar as the most intriguing instrument outside their musical toolkit. The pedal steel guitar, a 3-dimensional instrument, stands apart from others such as the piano or harp, which are 1-dimensional by nature. Piano and harp users must change their pitch by moving to another string or altering the position on the keyboard, whereas most stringed instruments are 2-dimensional. With a pedal steel guitar, changes in pitch can be achieved not only by plucking different strings but also by manipulating pedals and knee levers that adjust the tension on one or more strings.
The pedal steel guitar is instrumental in achieving the characteristic twangy sound that often graces real country songs. It is a beloved instrument for its range and versatility, offering a sound that is superbly suited for certain musical styles. Musicians who explore or dream of mastering the pedal steel might find themselves drawn to its unique ability to blend deeply with different chord progressions and melodies.
The Cello: A Soulful Symphony
As a cellist, one could easily be satisfied with their already beautiful instrument; however, a deep-rooted longing exists within many musicians to venture beyond their expertise. The cellist, for instance, often dreams of the French horn. Its melodic beauty and unparalleled versatility have captivated many, perhaps none more than the cellist who admires Brahms’ Trio for Violin, Horn, and Piano. Its mesmerizing first movement, performed by world-renowned musicians like Itzhak Perlman and Pinchas Zukerman, offers a sublime experience that can’t be matched by any other instrument.
Each musician's response to different sounds is uniquely personal. Even for those like the cellist, who appreciate the violin, there are moments when its sound may seem too sharp or squeaky, despite the undeniable beauty of the music itself. The cellist’s appreciation for the French horn lies in its non-stop melodic nature, which offers a timeless charm. The collaborative beauty between the cello and French horn in performances such as Brahms' Trio and Mozart's Clarinet Concerto is a timeless testament to their musical compatibility.
The Clarinet: A Throaty Charm
Another often secret musical wish is for the clarinet. This instrument's distinct throaty roll and mellifluous tone make it a staple in many orchestral and chamber ensembles. Musicians like the classically trained pianist often find themselves drawn to the clarinet due to its unique sound and expressive capabilities. Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto and Bizet's Carmen Fantasy for Clarinet are two of the most beautiful pieces for the clarinet, highlighting its richness and versatility.
The French horn and clarinet, both intrinsically part of the brass and woodwind families respectively, find their musical harmony and balance in a way that challenges the conventional boundaries of orchestration. Each musician's journey of understanding the intricacies and nuances of their chosen instrument deepens their appreciation of music and its various forms of expression. The pursuit of musical passion through mastering different instruments is a path filled with continuous exploration and endless discovery.
Whether it's the rich twang of the pedal steel guitar, the soulful resonance of the cello, or the throaty charm of the clarinet, these secret wishes and passions fuel the journey of every musician. In the end, it is the understanding and appreciation of a vast range of musical instruments that allows musicians to truly embrace and celebrate the diversity of music in all its forms.