Question and Answer

Pat, I was wondering what your opinion is on the recording technique known as "punching in". I have mixed views on the subject. On one hand, it seems like a good tool to help the composer transfer his/her ideas onto some medium. But on the other hand, it seems somewhat dishonest in that the listener isn't hearing the true abilities of the player. What's your take on this?

i feel basically the same way about that as i do about the backspace key on this computer or the eraser on my pencil. in no way do i feel that using a tool for self expression is anything other than that - the use of a tool. it is, however, totally dependent on the nature of the story that you want to tell - and just as the application of editing tools in art or text may alter the effect of a piece in those areas - so it can happen in music. whether the result is successful or not - or whether the technique that was utilized in the creation of a given piece is evident or not is a combination of being in the eye of the beholder, so to speak, and most importantly, in the success or failure of the work itself to do what it intends to be doing.