If I don't practice one day, I know it; two days, the critics know it; three days, the public knows it.
Jascha HeifetzRead
I occasionally play works by contemporary composers and for two reasons. First to discourage the composer from writing any more and secondly to remind myself how much I appreciate Beethoven.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote humorously suggests that listening to contemporary music can enhance one's appreciation of classical music.
Jascha Heifetz presents a witty perspective on the experience of listening to music. By stating that he plays works by contemporary composers, he implies that these modern compositions serve as a benchmark that makes him appreciate the timeless quality and genius of Beethoven's music even more. The humor lies in his admission that he plays contemporary works both to discourage their creation and as a personal reminder of the superior nature of classical music.
Themes
MusicContemporaryBeethovenAppreciationComposers
In practice
Example use cases
This quote is perfect for a discussion about the evolution of music in a lecture on music appreciation.
More from Jascha Heifetz
All quotes βCriticism does not disturb me, for I am my own severest critic. Always in my playing I strive to surpass myself, and it is this constant struggle that makes music fascinating to me.
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No matter what side of the argument you are on, you always find people on your side that you wish were on the other.
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Can you appreciate music without playing it? Yes, you can. You can appreciate baseball without playing it. Many people attend a football game merely for the crowd, the excitement, the color.
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