“I think the tendency to paint composers or styles of music with too broad a brush - for example, identifying composers as writers of "simple" or "complex" music - has become increasingly problematic and is almost never productive.” ThinkingSimpleStyleExampleComplexesPaintTendenciesProductiveBroadsComposerBrushesIdentifying Author:Michael Hersch
“I don't think performance out of duty yields very much. Coercion is never the way to go.” ThinkingWayDutyPerformancesYieldCoercion Author:Michael Hersch
“The musical culture in the United States has no doubt suffered severe setbacks, especially in funding, since the early 2000's. However, I've been amazed at the resiliency of those involved with contemporary music in this country. I think composers and those dedicated to contemporary music have reacted with tremendous creativity and resourcefulness.” ThinkingCountryStatesCultureUnitedCreativityUnited StatesDoubtInvolvedMusicalContemporaryNo DoubtDedicatedComposerAmazedSevereFundingSetbackResiliencyResourcefulnessContemporary Music Author:Michael Hersch
“I don't think the role of the critic has changed very much. In the most positive sense, the music critic is one who helps the public navigate what's out there, especially in bringing attention to things they otherwise wouldn't hear about, or to provide a new window into something familiar.” ThinkingHelpingAttentionRolesChangedWindowCriticsFamiliarNavigate Author:Michael Hersch
“A critic can serve as guide. I think there's an understanding amongst the public that critics have their own preferences and dislikes.” ThinkingUnderstandingCriticsGuidesDislikePreference Author:Michael Hersch
“Many critics have become de facto teachers. That is a lot of responsibility, and I think it should be wielded with care. Most people appreciate sincere guidance.” PeopleThinkingShouldCareResponsibilityTeacherAppreciateCriticsGuidanceSincere Author:Michael Hersch
