"In the range of music that we play - roughly 300 years' worth-there really are more similarities than differences"
- Esa-Pekka Salonen
About this Quote
This quote by Esa-Pekka Salonen speaks to the concept that music, in spite of its many different forms and styles, is eventually connected. Salonen is recommending that despite the large range of music that exists, covering 300 years, there are more similarities than distinctions between them. This could be analyzed as a call for unity and understanding in between various musical categories, in addition to a pointer that music is a universal language that can bring individuals together. It could also be viewed as a reminder that music is an effective tool for expressing feeling and getting in touch with others, no matter the design or category. Ultimately, Salonen's quote is a pointer that music is an effective force that can bring individuals together, which regardless of its numerous distinctions, it is eventually connected.
"If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away"
"We worked very hard to make the lyrics suit the music. I can't, like Elton John, for example, compose by lyrics. Elton has a great talent for that. Whatever you give him, including your questions, he composes in half an hour and makes a great song out of it"
