Re: Self-Instruction vs Tuition
Lauren Rene Hotchkiss (laurhot@ix.netcom.com)
Thu, 2 Jan 1997 22:55:31 -0800
You wrote:
>
>Date sent:
>
>I think that much discussion of self-teaching as opposed to
>instruction is destined to be fruitless. The efficacy of approach is
>dependent on the particular instrument, the skill and talent of the
>learner and the skill and availability of an appropriate tutor. There
>isn't a single approach which serves the needs of all.
>
>I note in this regard that Gaelic society, both Scottish and Irish,
>became the most traditional society in Europe because it was largely
>untouched by the Black Death and thus maintained its master-apprentice
>structure. The rest of Europe underwent significant advances in
>methods and techniques because of the destruction of their fixed and
>often hereditary professions. In consequence, the rest of Europe
>became innovative and began to do things in new ways as people were
>forced to improvise and to learn from experience rather than carrying
>on traditional methods. This lead to the cultural revival of the High
>Middle Ages and ultimately lead to the Renaissance. This is not to
>criticize instruction in a particularly style but is merely to
>indicate that self-instruction can lead in new and unexpected
>directions.
>
>Certainly everyone can learn new things from a good teacher, but not
>all would necessarily profit by long term instuction. I am someone
>who probably would since I am not a proficient musician. I would be a
>person who would have to study long and hard to achieve the level of
>"tolerable". Others, being more talented, could probably get by quite
>well with the occasional "how'd ja do that?"
>
>Ed Margerum
>
> emargerum@mecn.mass.edu
>
________________________________________________________________
Ed,
Eloquently and informatively put. Again, as you have with several
other threads, you have stated the last word upon the subject.
Lauren