English Audio Request

21.
Though we cannot dismiss Mr. Smith’s opinion completely, his argument is not persuasive. Contrary to what Mr. Smith may believe, the role of computers in music and the performing arts has been considerable. Computer technology can improve how a work is performed, broadcast, and experienced. Composers, performers, and audience can all have digital control of their music. If today’s top rock singer released his or her next piece on the Internet, it would not only be like playing in a theater with 20 million seats, but each listener could also transform the music depending upon his or her own personal tastes.

22.
Teens surround themselves with imaginary audiences. They imagine others are as interested in them as they are in themselves. Believing that everyone is watching them, teenagers are extremely self-conscious. A young boy, for example, may believe that he is unattractive because of his nose. Nothing can convince him that other people are paying no attention to his nose at all. Also, when chatting with friends, some teenage girls are too expressive, talking and laughing loudly, playing to their unreal audiences. They gradually realize, however, that others are not really interested in them. Teenagers’ behavior changes when they realize others are too busy with their own lives to be watching them.

23.
Professional athletes do not agree on what their roles should be. Some star players believe that their role is to be a great player, not a role model for young people. They insist, “We’re not paid to be role models.” They strongly believe that what they do in their private lives is their own business. On the contrary, other star players disagree. They maintain that sports stars are role models for people even though they may not want to be. They say, “We do not choose to be role models. We are chosen. Our choice is whether to be good role models or bad ones.”