ENGAGE.
The DUKES were on break discussing why, at times, we encounter a group that is less enthusiastic than our usual audience. Is it demographics, attention, ignorance, complacency, what is currently trending? Usually we can “read the crowd” so it is something that can be overcome but it still makes for interesting conversation.
Although improvisational, each DUKES performance is well thought out and great effort is put into how we present a song. It is not unlike a chef preparing a gourmet meal, a coach selecting the proper play, a conductor studying the score and its subtleties, the director or producer outlining the scene, a choreographer staging the dance. Get the picture?
Much effort is involved and the details do not go unnoticed. We put each tune together with enthusiasm with hopes that the listener will be entertained and appreciative. It is exciting when the audience engages and experiences these details. Experiencing the performance on multiple levels and realizing the depth of preparation involved are what makes the song entertaining and interesting. This is JAZZ.
I was thinking, “Instead of being judgmental, what situations might I disengage?” Do I participate when asked to “raise your hands in the air and dance like you just don’t care”, or “Everybody SCREAM!” Do I listen and appreciate the nuances of an Opera, Theatre, or Symphony performance? Do I engage in sporting events that I normally would have little interest in? Do I try new and exotic foods? Are there films and books that I would love if I just put forth the effort to engage? What if I actively participated…for the moment…and tried to experience a glimpse of what makes these of interest? So, I guess this might be my New Year’s resolution? Engage?
How much effort does it take to engage? We should all agree that it is just a simple matter of awareness.
The DUKES were on break discussing why, at times, we encounter a group that is less enthusiastic than our usual audience. Is it demographics, attention, ignorance, complacency, what is currently trending? Usually we can “read the crowd” so it is something that can be overcome but it still makes for interesting conversation.
Although improvisational, each DUKES performance is well thought out and great effort is put into how we present a song. It is not unlike a chef preparing a gourmet meal, a coach selecting the proper play, a conductor studying the score and its subtleties, the director or producer outlining the scene, a choreographer staging the dance. Get the picture?
Much effort is involved and the details do not go unnoticed. We put each tune together with enthusiasm with hopes that the listener will be entertained and appreciative. It is exciting when the audience engages and experiences these details. Experiencing the performance on multiple levels and realizing the depth of preparation involved are what makes the song entertaining and interesting. This is JAZZ.
I was thinking, “Instead of being judgmental, what situations might I disengage?” Do I participate when asked to “raise your hands in the air and dance like you just don’t care”, or “Everybody SCREAM!” Do I listen and appreciate the nuances of an Opera, Theatre, or Symphony performance? Do I engage in sporting events that I normally would have little interest in? Do I try new and exotic foods? Are there films and books that I would love if I just put forth the effort to engage? What if I actively participated…for the moment…and tried to experience a glimpse of what makes these of interest? So, I guess this might be my New Year’s resolution? Engage?
How much effort does it take to engage? We should all agree that it is just a simple matter of awareness.