I have always noticed that in portraits of really great writers the mouth is always firmly closed.
Gertrude SteinRead
My partner sometimes liked to go into the studio and improvise voice things just for fun. When I returned from England I transcribed one of her melodies, and had some of the hospice participants sing it, because they said they liked to sing. Their singing is very raw, but I'm going to use it for the final work.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote highlights the joy of improvisation in music and the beauty of raw, unpolished creativity.
Meredith Monk reflects on the spontaneity and joy of musical improvisation, sharing an experience where her partner's playful creation inspired participants in a hospice setting. The use of their raw singing showcases the authenticity and emotional depth of creative expression, emphasizing that artistic works can emerge from unexpected and genuine interactions, enriching the final piece with a sense of realness.
Themes
ImprovisationMusicCreativityAuthenticityExpression
In practice
Example use cases
In an art class, during a discussion on creativity, this quote can illustrate the importance of spontaneity in artistic endeavors.
Similar quotes
Our music has depth, and attempts philosophical thought and meaning with discussions of infinity, eternity and mortality. There is a line which people cross that turns it into some magical, mystical realm, for which I dont claim responsibility and dont hold any great truck with.
David GilmourRead
When I'm in Senegal, I can't just sit in isolation making music. People need my help. And the Senegalese people helped create my music. It comes from the country itself.
Youssou N'DourRead
Music is my mistress and she plays second fiddle to no one.
Duke EllingtonRead
I am happy to be a regional writer. My region is the American West, old Mexico, West Virginia, New York, Europe, Australia, the human heart, and the male groin.
Edward AbbeyRead
I'm a musician and, just as the critics are hard on me, I'm hard on the critics.
Oscar PetersonRead