"But still as compared to many, many orchestras in the world, I think you find a lot more new music and living composers on our programs than many other places"
About this Quote
Michael Tilson Thomas, a renowned conductor and author, is known for his advocacy of new music and living authors. In this quote, he highlights a crucial aspect of his approach to programs orchestra concerts. He recommends that the orchestras he has actually been involved with, especially those in which he has actually held management positions, tend to include a higher proportion of modern works and structures by living artists compared to lots of other orchestras around the world.
To translate this quote, we must first value the context in which orchestras generally operate. Lots of orchestras generally concentrate on the classical canon-- works by composers such as Beethoven, Mozart, and Brahms. These works are precious and integral to the collection, however this focus can sometimes overshadow modern imagination and ingenious structures by living artists.
Tilson Thomas stresses his orchestras' effort to diversify their programming, hence providing audiences with a richer, more varied listening experience that includes both the treasured classics and cutting-edge new music. This approach not only honors the tradition of classical music but also guarantees the art kind stays dynamic and relevant, encouraging modern authors who are actively forming the future of orchestral music.
By setting more works by living composers, orchestras can connect with audiences more personally, showing contemporary experiences and social themes. This addition places the orchestra as not only a preserver of history but also as an active individual in cultural advancement, adding to the living tapestry of music.
Additionally, Tilson Thomas's statement shows a proactive stance towards nurturing and promoting young and emerging skill. Such commitment can help in closing the gap between previous and present music, making sure that audiences and musicians alike are exposed to a broad spectrum of musical voices.
In summary, Michael Tilson Thomas champions a philosophy that expands the scope of orchestral programs to embrace contemporary music, cultivating richer and more varied musical experiences that bridge the past and today.
More details
About the Author