On What It Means To Be a Guitar Amateur

While in route to a gig, I heard a program on NPR titled "Studio 360". The host presented an insightful discussion about the word 'amateur'. The word was derived from a word which means lover and devotee. Its modern use delineates professionals from non-professionals (hobbyists). Certainly, with the modern understanding, few people would go to an amateur dentist or neurosurgeon.

As I played my guitar to provide ambiance for people while they dined, I thought about the original intent of the word 'amateur' and how it applied to me. I love the guitar and I am a devoted student of the instrument and the music that can be created with it. Many consider me to be a professional, but I would rather be considered an amateur who happens to make a living from my passion. Perhaps this explains how a five hour gig can pass by so quickly.

I recently attended the Roland VS Workstation seminar in Nashville, TN. The 2-day seminar was designed to train people to better understand the complexities and potential of Roland's line of digital hard disk multi-track recorders. Several of the participants were professional recording engineers, several were hobbyists and others, like myself, were professional musicians. It was my observation that all in attendance were devoted to the task of understanding these amazing machines. It was obvious that we all loved the process of recording, editing, mixing and mastering sound recordings. Furthermore, we enjoyed sharing our experiences and helpful hints with one another. We were all 'amateurs'.

While in Nashville, I was privileged to be Paul McGill's (guitar maker extraordinaire!) guest at the annual Chet Atkins Appreciation Festival. I attended the Gala concert which featured dozens of well known musicians who worked with and were inspired by the late and great guitarist. Every single performer would be considered a professional musician, but this was not about the profession. These performers had a great time performing. The musical dialogues that took place on stage were genuine and could be felt by all those in attendance. The program was an anthology of the diverse music that Chet played or was inspired by.

Perhaps the most memorable performance was given by Martha Carson from the Grand Ole Opry. She must be at least 500 years old (she joked about one of her gold records on display at the Smithsonian). Move over Tina Turner!!! Martha played and sang her heart out while she danced and moved with the music. It is refreshing to see someone who has made music for a lifetime still get immense pleasure from what she does. She and all who performed were true amateurs by the original intent of the word.

Over the years, I have met many professional and non-professional musicians. With both there are peaks and valleys. The peaks are what we live for, however, they are perhaps better appreciated after having been in a valley. There are times when we get frustrated... lack of practice time, stale repertoire, or a planing off of our abilities. The fact that frustration raises its ugly head shows that we are, in fact, passionate about what we do. It means that we care. Unfortunately for some, frustration can lead to resentment. This can be quite unfortunate for the professional as performances begin to lack luster, excitement and passion. As with any relationship, the fire must be fed.

This is what I love about teaching and studying music. This too, is what I love about the Washington Guitar Society, the Marlow series, the Mid Atlantic Guitar Ensemble Festival and the new annual Alexandria Guitar Festival. These all feed our fires and keep them burning. They provide the opportunity to share our experiences and give helpful hints to one another. It is this healthy environment in the Washington area that allows me to not only be a professional, but a proud amateur.

Kevin Vigil

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