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Forum – Week 10 – “Scratch”

I really enjoyed a second viewing of Doug Pray’s fantastic documentary on the noble art of Scratching. I had forgotten just how humorous it was, and how talented the practitioners involved were. Turntablists Qbert, Shadow, and Mix-Master Mike were equal victors in my ill-informed opinion. The art has grown to a level of incredible complexity in a very short time.

I am most impressed with those who find a medium between successfully executing virtuoso technique and fulfilling their role as performers. This is clearly not only applicable to the art of turntablism but to virtually all music performance – engage with the people, not just the instrument.

I find it interesting that such a wide audience exists for what many may see as an indulgent and alienating art form. As I have clarified for myself in recent studies into the role of virtuoso performers, it seems there will always be a market for some forms of indulgent music that thrive on pushing boundaries of human limitation. For me there is nothing more engaging in a performance than witnessing entertainers really putting themselves out there, going to a place accessible only through tireless dedication and practice. It never ceases to inspire.


Reference:

Whittington, Stephen. “Forum – Week 10 – Scratch.” Workshop presented at EMU space, level 5, Schultz building, University of Adelaide, 22nd of May 2008.

posted by David J Dowling @ 4:23 PM