The role of an orchestra in the 21st century isn't just playing, it's about developing future audiences and performers.
Leonard SlatkinRead
In some ways I believe music is the more convincing communicator of ideas than words. For instance, we can hear of Kordaly and Bartok and recognise them as Hungarian, but very few of us speak Hungarian, but the music itself speaks to more people.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Music can convey messages more effectively than words, reaching a broader audience.
In this quote, Leonard Slatkin emphasizes the power of music as a universal language that transcends barriers like language and culture. He points out that while many might know the names of Hungarian composers like Kordaly and Bartok, few actually speak Hungarian, highlighting that music itself has the ability to communicate emotions and ideas to people all over the world, regardless of their linguistic background.
Themes
MusicCommunicationUniversalIdeasArt
In practice
Example use cases
In a presentation about cultural diversity, this quote could illustrate how music connects people from different backgrounds.
More from Leonard Slatkin
All quotes →An orchestra knows during the first two minutes of the first rehearsal whether or not they are going to enjoy the person on the podium.
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There's not an orchestra in the world that doesn't have weaknesses. None of us can play everything well. The repertoire is just too big.
Leonard SlatkinRead
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