Thursday, December 08, 2005

CLAP - 1 : to strike (as two flat hard surfaces) together so as to produce a sharp percussive noise.
APPLAUD
: 2 : to show approval of especially by clapping the hands
Merriam- Webster Online Dictionary

One of the most annoying sounds in the world for me is the sound of clapping, especially after just hearing a magnificent piece of music, or a symphony, or a beautifully moving song. After listening to a live recording of Pavarotti singing Nessun Dorma (for example) before he is even finished the audience launched into loud and disturbing applause! Clapping ruins the whole mood of the previous hour or two performance. Wouldn't it be better to be able to sit and reflect upon the sounds one just listened to or the play one just saw? Harmonious sounds full of emotion and deep meaning are shattered with the CLAP CLAP CLAP to boost the egos of those who just performed it. Are performers playing music or singing or acting for the love of their art, or for merely superficial gratification of being loved themselves for playing or singing or acting out a part?

3 comments:

jules said...

In the Italian tradition people often clap at certain funerals. I found this very disconcerting the first time and am still not used to it.

the divine miss b said...

have you ever seen how some deaf clap? they raise their hands in the air and flutter their fingers. i've always wished that that form of applauding were more widely used (ie a silent but enthusiastic response.) there are times when the only appropriate reponse to profound beauty is silence.

Stardust said...

What an awesome idea Jenny Lynn! What a beautiful response that would be indeed!