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

>I have two simple questions:  1) Why would you take the repeat? 2) Why
>wouldn't you take the repeat? Most people would answer on the basis of
>the effectiveness on them of the performer's decision.  I admit this is
>a pretty weak reason, but I haven't seen a better one.

(Sigh) Once again, the better reason lies with the composer's intent.  That
we may or may not listen differently is completely irrelevant.  The art is
what matters, and you cannot respect the art while you simultaneously
dismantle it.  The composer is the premiere expert on his own work.

>As you point out, we can't know how dead listeners heard a piece,
>although we might guess brilliantly.  As I point out, we can't know
>a dead composer's intent, although we might guess brilliantly.

Yeah, looking at the score and seeing a repeat sign, wow, what
scintillating brilliance that requires.  "Goodness gracious, Holmes,
however did you fathom it?"

-Jocelyn Wang
Culver Chamber Music Series
Come see our web page: www.bigfoot.com/~CulverMusic