The Man Who Wasn't There (film)

[napoleonspidgin]

As an avid Coen Brothers fan, this film is one my favorites of this decade.  As a piano enthusiast, I was delighted with the soundtrack containing the famous Beethoven sonatas. 

One aspect of the film I've always found depressing (aside from the general melancholy mood) is Scarlet Johanson's character (the amateur pianist) being turned down by a fancy piano instructor introduced to her by Ed (Billy Bob Thornton), crushing any dreams of her pursuing piano in a meaningful way.

It makes me wonder if classical music heavyweights assume too much power over aspiring students.  Should one listen to the declaration "You can't do it don't even try" ?

[Petter]

From the vibes I pick up on this forum I´d like to go a step further. "You can´t do it but please try so we get an opportunity to mock you and laugh at your feeble attempts."

[napoleonspidgin]

Yes, the mockery is certainly a valid addition.  It all rests on the ego.  Judging others can never be a completely sincere affair.  It always has a slice of manipulation attached.  Saying "No you can't" is in part wish-making.

[healdie]

there is a certain air of snobbery about classical music compared to popular music it is something i have notcied
take these two scenarios

(man walks into guitar shop)

Guitar dude: Hey man you play guitar go on play something
Man: er no i'm not that good
Guitar dude: Hey man that don't matter
(man plays something and recieves contructive critisism)

(Man walks into a piano shop)

Piano Dude: I don't why you are bothering I could play the Chopin etudes at 7 years old you peasent
(or that is the implication anyway)
(man throws self off bridge)