Re: BLAM & BLAH Experiences
David Kaczorowski ( kaczordk@UMDNJ.EDU )
Fri, 7 Feb 1997 15:00:19 -0500 (EST)
>
> While this thread has no technical jazz content, it is very interesting
> and I believe a valid area of discussion.
>
> I have been taught that there is a learning process that follows 3
> basic steps:
>
> 1. the mind teaches the body - you consciously think of what you are
> doing
>
> 2. the body teaches the mind - you are playing along and you realize
> you are playing something cool and reflect on it
>
> 3. the mind and body work together in harmony - the BLAM experience
>
> The Chinese call this mind - no mind, or the void. You do NOT think at
> all. You simply relax and let yoursef go. You react to your
> suroundings in "real time" and everything you have learned and
> experienced comes in to play. You DO NOT anticipate what you should
> do, you just put yourself on autopilot.
>
> I know some people who can easily do this at will with great results.
> I struggle with it, and have breakthrough moments of BLAM occasionally.
> I think the key is NOT TO THINK, NOT TO TRY, just play. Of course alot
> of thinking and trying needs to come first to build the foundation for
> your autopilot experiences.
>
> Since I can not do this at will, please take these thoughts in that
> context. Just a semi-educated opinion.
>
> Mike
>
>
Allow me to humbly jump into the mix. While I may not be a master, I am
able to achieve what has been described, or something similar, pretty
much at will. Mike is on the right track, however his description is a
great over-simplification. For me, there was a lot that went into this.
I believe there were two basic steps:
1. A realization of the desire to have this type of relationship with
my instrument and music.
2. I decided on an approach.
I assume the approach will differ slightly depending on individual needs.
The first thing I began working on was the elimination of all bullshit
and distractions in my life, and to strive for a healthier life-style.
This set the stage for development of creative visualization and the
mind's eye. All the while I geared my practice regiment towards achieving
ever greater technical facility.
I still work on ever greater musicianship. I'm pretty good at creative
visualization and not thinking at will, aspects of the described tran-
scendental experience, which can be turned on or off at will as
necessitated. Since further detail would preclude musical discussion,
I'll stop here. Anyone one interested in discussing details can email me
privately.
peace,
David Kaczorowski
kaczordk@umdnj.edu