[img]541|left|||no_popup[/img] Growing up, I never understood how my grandmother could cook such delicious meals using her “dash” method. A dash of salt, a pinch of this, some of that… How did she know it would turn out?
What makes a meal, a work of art, or a piece of music memorable?
Contrary to a Type “A” person’s impulsive reply (I should know), it isn’t exact technique. It is in the indescribable – and immeasurable – inspiration that leads one off the path.
Exploring Inexactitude
When I dare to artistically meander, sometimes I find myself wandering into a hidden lush valley. Other times I end up in quicksand. I have learned to accept both possibilities.
It isn’t so easy for some of my students. The first time I ask them to look beyond good intonation and a straight bow into what they want to express with their music, they look at me like I have asked them to undress. Most immediately look away and begin to fidget.
When I ask them to play a particular piece from their heart, gently refusing to offer a technical explanation as to how to shape a sad or passionate phrase, they almost invariably hesitate. Once they begin, however, the first tentative phrase leads deeper to the next and the next, until by the end they have reached a part of themselves they often didn’t know they had the power to access… especially on the cello.
The beauty of playing an instrument is that while accurate technique is important, one doesn’t have to be ultra-advanced to explore creating through inspiration.
Once again, I learn from my students and now look to where else I can apply this in my life.
Ms. Dewberry, an accomplished cellist, completed her DMA in Chamber Music Performance from UCLA in December 2005. She received her MM in Cello Performance from UCLA in June 2002 and her B.M. in Cello Performance from Western Michigan University in April 1998. She also holds a B.A. in French with a minor in Women's Studies and Philosophy.
Her website is www.carterdewberry.com
She may be contacted at carter@carterdewberry.com
