Why Do Players Dedicate Their Lives to Studying Music History and Theory Just to Play Someone Else’s Music?
Many people find it perplexing that musicians dedicate their lifetimes to studying music history and theory, only to perform compositions by other artists. They argue that playing in an orchestra is redundant because it resembles an over-educated cover band. However, this viewpoint undermines the multidimensional nature of musicianship and the unique contributions of classical musicians.
Composing and Arranging vs. Performing Someone Else's Music
It is true that many players engage in both composing and arranging music, as it is a significant part of their work. Personally, I am also involved in these activities. Despite the fact that musicians are trained in music theory and history, it is often not to the point of overeducation but rather as a fundamental part of their holistic understanding of music. The belief that understanding music history and theory is unnecessary for performing someone else's music is a misperception. These skills are essential for interpreting and performing music with depth and nuance.
Moreover, playing someone else's music is a highly sophisticated and creative endeavor. It requires a deep understanding of musical structure, performance practice, and the composer's intentions. There is more to it than simply performing notes on a page. Composers and performers work hand-in-hand to ensure that the music comes to life with meaning and emotion. The skills required for performing other people's music are different from those required for composing, but they are equally valuable and demanding.
Classical Musicians: A Different Breed
Classical musicians are not just dedicating their lives to studying music; they are engaging in an intensive training process that can span decades. Many begin studying string, woodwind, brass, or percussion instruments from a young age, often under the guidance of highly demanding teachers at prestigious conservatories or universities. This dedication is not a waste of time but rather a crucial step in mastering their instruments and developing the technical and interpretive skills necessary to play in top symphony orchestras.
Becoming a member of a top symphony orchestra requires more years of rigorous training than becoming a doctor. These musicians are not just talented; they are passionate about classical music and are driven by a desire to express the rich legacy of composers from Beethoven to contemporary artists. The life of a professional classical musician is indeed challenging, and they do not earn the same level of financial rewards as athletes like baseball, football, or basketball stars. However, the sense of fulfillment and the artistic reward they gain from this career are unparalleled.
The Myth of the Cover Band in Classical Music
The idea of classical musicians as overeducated cover bands is fundamentally flawed. Throughout the history of classical music, composers rarely participated in the performance of their own music. This isolation between composition and performance is especially pronounced from the 19th century onwards. The orchestras that premiered Beethoven's symphonies were not "cover bands," even though the players did not write the music themselves. These orchestras were at the forefront of interpreting and performing the music of their time with great skill and dedication.
It is crucial not to always compare the past with the present. The standards and expectations of the classical music world have evolved significantly over time. However, it is equally important to recognize that each era has its own unique challenges and norms. Judging the present against the past without acknowledging these differences only serves to diminish the achievements and contributions of contemporary classical musicians.
Final Thoughts
The dedication and hard work that classical musicians put into studying music history and theory are not in vain but rather are essential for their growth as performers and composers. Performing someone else's music is a profound and complex endeavor that requires a deep understanding of both the music and its origins. Classical musicians are not just covering others' work but are continuing to build on and preserve the rich legacy of Western classical music. Their training and expertise are invaluable, and the rewards of their work are profound.