Brian and everyone...

First, as almost everyone has already said...what a wonderful opportunity this is for all of us! Harriet's gift of precious time and professional expertise is worth so much to us. Thank you, Harriet!

Regarding participation by JPFers...I am convinced that over a relatively brief period of time, the number of folks becoming involved will gradually increase. Most people tend to be a bit timid about jumping into something new; they need to find a comfort level with it first.

And, as you mentioned earlier, Brian, a few folks probably think a little more highly of their skills than what might be an accurate assessment. Having that exposed in a public arena would not be particularly comfortable for those few folks. But, I think they are, by far, the exception to the huge majority of JPFers.

But, I think that many of us do not know how to give an unbiased, objective and thorough critque of an ENTIRE song. By reviewing and analyzing Harriet's critiques, and the critiques of JPFers who ARE good critiquers, we have a real opportunity to learn. And as we become more proficient, we will become more involved. I gave my first in-depth critique this week (March 22). By closely examining Harriet's previous critiques and the really detailed critiques of the more accomplished JPFers, it gave me direction and the notion that occassionally I might actually know a little bit about something that I am doing.

The learning process of this excercise is so far-reaching to the rest of us, whether or not our personal entry is selected. Other than personal and professional friendships I have developed through my participation in various JPF activities, this process has been the most helpful, educational and enriching experience I have had, musically, in my six-plus years as an active JPF member.

To those of you who are a little timid to become involved...I suggest that you jump right in, even if you think your lyric/song has ugly warts all over it. You will never be exposed...FOR FREE!!!...to a better or more positive way to make those ugly warts disappear. Most of us are here to improve our skills. But, that will be hard to do if we don't publicly expose our weaknesses in a controlled and nurturing environment such as this. You will probably never have another opportunity like this in your musical lifetime! Don't waste it!

Alan

Last edited by Al David; 03/26/07 02:06 AM.