FROM THE TOP!
When a orchestra conductor lifts his baton high; holds it motionless in the air, having tapped lightly on the edge of the stand in front of him, he is not required to tell his musicians that they are to start at the beginning. They do not have to be told. They know his intention and they are a part of it.
It becomes their reponsibility to perform to the utmost perfection of their capabilities.
If, however, they have been through the composition before and are to concentrate,now, on a specific portion of the orchestration, the conductor will specify when and where they are to begin to play.
Maestro George W. Bush, conducting the group of which we are members, has tapped the stand, he has indicated we are to undertake the reading of a complicated score with many subtle shades of meaning and intent. He has been listening to our individual attempts to gain control of the notes, and he has now alerted us to the fact that the performance is almost ready to start. He will indicate when we are to play.
Usually, the downbeat follows quickly. Almost, at once, you might say, but this has not been the case at our recent rehearsals. He has our attention. We have been alerted, but there is a tense delay. Why? Is something amiss?
It is not that the maestro is not acquainted with the score.
He has confidence in the quality and exactness of every stave before him. He has delayed the start, not because he doubts our readiness or capabilities. He has delayed the introduction because the audience is not yet prepared...those who are to be attentive, listen and participate in that which lies head of us all. They are not ready to share the projected composition. He deems it wise to wait.
Conducting a nation at war is a work of art demanding special skills. If the presentation is to succeed, much depends on the ability of those who hear it to comprehend ulterior meanings and to refrain from spoiling the essential unity of it all.
George W. Bush, is, even now, ready – even eager to go ahead. The international community for whom all of this war is to be undertaken, is not in full agreement as to where they are going to be seated. or if they are to be present at all!
He feels his musicians are prepared. He knows they are trained, capable and eager. He knows the limitations and advantage of the arena itself and he appreciates the value of proper timing.
Many factors go into the making of such a moment. One must be absolutely sure of intent and work with that objective in mind. Our maestro, is taking a seond look at the entire composition and gauging the capacity of the onlookers and listeners to appreciate what he is trying to accomplish.
At the moment, there is hesitation and uncertainty in various sections. He must wait until they are prepared, or until it become apparent some are not going to do so at all. This is a tense time. The entire world is awating the downward sweep of his arms.
A.L.M. December 21, 2002 [c540wds]
