Steve Schwartz <[log in to unmask]> writes:

>>Whenever critics adopt such a self-inflated role, I cannot help but think
>>of the eunuch analogy.  All the critics combined have not contributed to
>>music as much as even a single, semi-talented composer.
>
>This is Romantic cant and shows an ignorance of critics.

Thanks for pointing out my ignorance.  I had no idea, but, then, ignorant
folks never do.  I'll try to work on it.

>...  Mainly through his writings on the operas, Shaw taught at least
>English speakers how to listen to Mozart.  I submit he performed a
>service for which we should all be grateful.

Yes, but to suggest that what Shaw wrote about music is as much a
contribution as the music itself, or even comes close, would be highly
inaccurate (I won't say "ignorant").

Jocelyn Wang
Culver Chamber Music Series
www.bigfoot.com/~CulverMusic