ambidexterous take 2
So I have noticed differences between my left and right hand while playing. They have distinct characteristics, distinct scratching styles. Since my mixer returned I’ve been back to practicing with my right hand scratching and left hand transforming, as opposed to the reverse I was doing while waiting for my fader replacement. Now that I’ve returned to right handed transforming, I’ve noticed while my technique has quickly improved via my right hand’s dominant, quick study nature at any activity, my left hand’s scratching, though a little less dexterous in certain respects, has just the right amount of slowness that transcribes itself into a certain languidity on the decks. The result is a tad heavier but sweeter more bassy scratch. What I used to call left-hand lazy for its tendency to rest heavy on the transformer when learning how to crab or chirp was now beginning to parent a different sound while scratching, giving me another way to play.
While I used to joke my left-hand had all the zeal of a slug, I’ve become much more aware that speed isn’t everything; steady but sure can have a charm all its own. I feel blessed to discover that each hand has its own character, and breeds its own distinct style of play. So though I enjoy the lightening quickness and nimble feel of my right hand scratching a record, these days I find myself trying to incorporate the languidity of my left hand into the sometimes too quick motions of my right. I’m learning how to slow down and temper filler sounds, finding the control and thus space that shapes a musical mix.
It demonstrates the subtle variations that can be found in musical play. As one rubs the record back and forth one can find a variation of sound. Eq it, pitch it just right and follow the rhythm; it all rides on the weight of one’s arm, the speed of the throw and the particular finger friendly dance you are doing with the transformer. Repeating, starting, stopping, slicing, slurring and cutting sounds in infinite ways, the tablist recombines things into new beats and melodies.
Music creation and recreation is really like a circle – a sonic version of the pi concept- endless numbers of audio patterns spiraling out, always renewing itself, always remixing itself as both our mind and playing technique are continually redesigned by expanding song. New voices and sounds can be harvested from every place and sound. With a turntable we can rhythmically unfold any audio experience into music. Viva la spinning drum
For the science minded to understand what synapses fire whilst playing, check out Neuroimage
Laboratory’s site on the mind body connection in music – http://www.musicianbrain.com/index.html
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