I’ve learned what ‘classical’ means. It means something that sings and dances through sheer joy of existence.
Gustav HolstRead
There is no room in music for the second-rate - it might just as well be the nineteenth-rate.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of excellence in music, suggesting that mediocrity has no place in artistic expression.
In this quote, Gustav Holst asserts that music demands a certain level of quality and cannot accommodate mediocrity. By likening second-rate efforts to even lower standards, he underscores the idea that art should strive for the highest possible caliber, as anything less diminishes its value and impact. This statement serves as a rallying cry for musicians and artists to pursue greatness in their work.
Themes
MusicExcellenceArtQualityMediocrity
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a music class to inspire students to strive for excellence.
More from Gustav Holst
All quotes →The Heavenly Spheres make music for us,_x000D_ The Holy Twelve dance with us,_x000D_ All things join in the dance!_x000D_ Ye who dance not, know not what we are knowing.
Gustav HolstRead
Music, being identical with heaven, isn't a thing of momentary thrills, or even hourly ones. It's a condition of eternity.
Gustav HolstRead
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