"A nation creates music - the composer only arranges it"
- Mikhail Glinka
About this Quote
This quote by Mikhail Glinka speaks with the concept that music is a reflection of a nation's culture and identity. It suggests that the music of a nation is not created by any one individual, however rather is a collective expression of individuals. The composer is merely the one who organizes the music, taking the ideas and noises of the nation and putting them together in a manner that is pleasing to the ear. This concept is essential due to the fact that it emphasizes the significance of the collective in developing music, rather than the person. It also speaks with the concept that music is a reflection of a nation's culture and identity, and that it is something that is shared by all members of the nation. This quote is a tip that music is a powerful tool for expressing the values and beliefs of a country, which it is something that must be appreciated and valued.
"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"