Poking fun at typos isn’t quite fair since we all make them. I recently got sassy with an auto spellcheck feature on my html mailer program, for example, and sent out a press release with “Trovatore” spelled “Travatore” about five times. Nothing like sending out that first release for a new client and falling flat on one’s face. That’s how it’s done, folks! That is how it’s done.
I would be neglecting my blogger duties, however, if I did not share this pearl of marketing prowess with you. Here’s what APAP, the Association of Performing Arts Presenters, sent out advertising their January conference on Friday:
Bill T. Jones, legendary [insert description of his talents] will bring his unique perspectives, on what we do not know, to the Friday opening plenary. I would love to write a press release that way: “The King’s Singers [insert description of their talents] will be coming to your city this October.” Or a whole bio: “Acclaimed for his commanding stage presence and inventive artistry, American bass-baritone Eric Owens has carved a unique place in the contemporary opera world as both a champion of new music and a powerful interpreter of classic works. [insert descriptions of his past roles and awards].” Think of how much time the APAP approach would save!
I received email this morning with Nadia Boulanger’s dates typo’d to 1857-1979. She had a long, long life, but not 122 years’ worth.
Sadly, we can all think of artists for whom the words “insert description of their talents” would not save any space at all over an accurate description of said talents.
Because of past experience, I have now come to loathe the word “legendary.” I’ve been sent countless bios for “legendary” musicians or an individual/group that has shared the stage with someone “legendary” in an attempt to elevate their own status when [inserting description of talents] in press releases or other materials.
It’s either a) laziness or b) some folks have lost their grasp on what “legendary” truly means.
[insert witty comment penetrating to the heart of the issue]