"Judith L. Zaimont" <[log in to unmask]> wrote: 

>In fact, working out just what one's personal style is nowadays
>is tough-- much harder than in Stravinsky's time. In a world where
>pluralism and tolerance to all viewpoints are espoused (even if
>only via lip-service), the question for a creator of what is *genuine*
>becomes quite complicated.

The question of "genuine" is, from my perspective, complicated for the
critic.

As I write this, I am reminded of the criticism that was leveled against
Rachmaninoff's works, especially towards the end of his life.  He was
accused of being old hat, self-indulgent, trite...maybe he was all of
those things, but, whether or not you care for those things, I sincerely
believe that what he expressed came from within.  I think of his last
opus, the Symphonic Dances.  They were so nostalgic...I sense he wanted
to go back but felt, sadly, that his time had passed.  For me, that is
what "genuine" means.  Being genuine is indeed, risky business.

Karl

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