If you send up a weather vane or put your thumb up in the air every time you want to do something different, to find out what people are going to think about it, you're going to limit yourself. That's a very strange way to live.
Jessye NormanRead
As for my voice, it cannot be categorized-and I like it that way, because I sing things that would be considered in the dramatic, mezzo or spinto range. I like so many different kinds of music that I've never allowed myself the limitations of one particular range.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses the beauty of diversity in musical expression and the rejection of categorization.
In this quote, Jessye Norman emphasizes her disdain for being confined to a specific vocal category. She takes pride in her ability to sing across a wide range of musical styles, showcasing her versatility and passion for different kinds of music. This perspective highlights the importance of embracing individuality and the richness that comes from exploring various genres without limitations.
Themes
MusicDiversityExpressionVoiceArtistryIndividuality
In practice
Example use cases
Sharing this quote at a music workshop to inspire participants to explore various genres.
More from Jessye Norman
All quotes →My parents said to us, practically on a daily basis, that we were as good as anyone else on this earth, and that we would simply have to work harder in order to show that.
Jessye NormanRead
Problems arise in that one has to find a balance between what people need from you and what you need for yourself.
Jessye NormanRead
I am grateful that my horizons were not narrowed at the outset.
Jessye NormanRead
As for my voice, it cannot be categorised - and I like it that way, because I sing things that would be considered in the dramatic, mezzo or spinto range.
Jessye NormanRead
It is still more likely that a woman's power would be seen as aggression, and a man's power would be seen as assertion.
Jessye NormanRead
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