"Some people really want to play Mozart and be just performers. I was more interested in invention"

Steve Lacy's quote speaks with the idea that some individuals are content to merely perform the works of others, while others are more thinking about creating something new. He indicates that he is one of the latter, as he was more interested in innovation than simply playing Mozart. This suggests that he was more thinking about developing his own music, instead of simply playing the works of others. He likely found more satisfaction in producing something brand-new and distinct, rather than simply playing the works of a master composer. His quote also talks to the idea that creativity and development are more satisfying than just performing the works of others. It implies that those who are interested in developing something new and distinct will find more satisfaction in their work than those who merely perform the works of others.