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I was talking about this with a few of my students so I figured I'd ask here - how much does sound matter to you? Specifically, as far as the elements go of your own playing (or playing of someone you enjoy listening to) where does sound/tone rank compared to melodic development, phrasing, harmonic motion, technique, sight-reading, etc?
For me, sound is #1. I could allow myself to have an "off" night technically, harmonically, whatever. But I could NEVER accept having the sound in my head not come out of my horn. Same thing when I'm listening. Someone could be playing the hippest stuff out there, but if their tone quality isn't good I just won't enjoy it. Conversely, someone could be not playing the best stuff but if their sound is killing I'll love it.
Now I always strive for both and listen to players with both...I don't want to sacrifice one for the other at all.
Just wondering your thoughts on the matter!
For me, sound is #1. I could allow myself to have an "off" night technically, harmonically, whatever. But I could NEVER accept having the sound in my head not come out of my horn. Same thing when I'm listening. Someone could be playing the hippest stuff out there, but if their tone quality isn't good I just won't enjoy it. Conversely, someone could be not playing the best stuff but if their sound is killing I'll love it.
Now I always strive for both and listen to players with both...I don't want to sacrifice one for the other at all.
Just wondering your thoughts on the matter!