"The whole path of American music has been so much about the recognition of stylistic diversity, and the recognition of the importance of music which was from one of the vernacular traditions"
- Michael Tilson Thomas
About this Quote
This quote by Michael Tilson Thomas speaks with the value of acknowledging the diversity of musical designs in the United States. He is stressing the importance of acknowledging the music that comes from the different vernacular customs in the US. This consists of music from different cultures, such as African American, Latin American, and Native American music. He is suggesting that the path of American music has actually had to do with recognizing the value of these different designs and incorporating them into the larger American music landscape. This is an essential point, as it highlights the importance of recognizing the diversity of musical styles in the US and how they have actually contributed to the development of American music. By acknowledging the importance of these different styles, we can much better appreciate the richness of American music and the contributions of various cultures.
"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"
