photo by James Theiler

Humor

Q: How long does it take to tune a hammered dulcimer?

A: No one knows.

 

 

 

Golden Rules for Ensemble Playing

1. Everyone should play the same piece.

2. Stop at every repeat sign and discuss in detail whether to take the repeat or not. Listeners will love this a lot!

3. Carefully tune your instrument before playing. That way you can play out of tune all night with a clear conscience.

4. Take your time turning pages.

5. The right note at the wrong time is a wrong note (and vice-versa).

6. If everyone gets lost except you, follow those who get lost.

7. If a passage is difficult, slow down. If it's easy, speed up. Everything will work itself out in the end.

8. If you are completely lost, stop everyone and say, "I think we should tune."

9. Happy are those who have not perfect pitch, for the kingdom of music is theirs.

10. If the band has to stop because of you, explain in detail why you got lost. Everyone will be very interested.

11. A wrong note played timidly is a wrong note. A wrong note played with authority is an interpretation.

12. When everyone else has finished playing, you should not play any notes you have left.