more on list complaint, promotion and commercialization

[Jill Teasley <jteasley@xxxxxxxxx>]

It seems to me, from lurking on this list and from what the 
microsound welcome email states, that if someone is interested in 
getting involved in the microsound community, posting on the list is 
one of the best ways to do this, and if you want to let people know 
about what your microsound-related work, occasionally posting about 
your activities in an innocuous way is an acceptable thing to do. And 
it is generally a lot more constructive for everyone if what is 
posted does not have to do with dissing other list members. If you 
don't like reading someone's self-promotion, don't read it. There is 
plenty of other discussion on this list to provide 
intellectual/entertainment fodder.

As a curator, student, and music lover I appreciate the opportunities 
to check out people's site and event links. And since, as many others 
have pointed out, microsound-related events and artists aren't 
necessarily going to be advertised or mentioned in mass media, this 
list is a great way to find out about them.

Furthermore, I am always impressed when I see that someone takes the 
time and effort to present themselves in an articulate manner, even 
when their music or other work is not something I would necessarily 
consume on my own or otherwise appreciate. Perhaps this is a 
mainstream mentality, but my environment is mainstream. I won't read 
about something unless it is visibly communicated in a place where I 
will see it.

If someone is trying to get the word out about something they are 
doing, communication is essential, and the wider an audience they 
seek, the more they will document and publicize their work. As others 
have commented, what is wrong with communicating what you are doing 
to a group of people who are likely to be interested? If you choose 
other means of promoting your work, that is your own prerogative.

Clearly microsound is in little danger of being reduced to an event 
listing, and an event posting every now and then on this list just 
adds to the richness of the context in which issues are discussed and 
info shared.

As for cdr's and mp3 vs. pressed cd's - as far as artistic quality, 
the medium is only the message if the message isn't strong enough to 
transcend the identity of its physical carrier. If you are looking to 
have your taste defined by someone else's idea of marketability, then 
you are choosing to limit your scope.

Jill
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