"By concentrating on precision, one arrives at technique, but by concentrating on technique one does not arrive at precision"

Bruno Walter’s assertion suggests a fundamental distinction between true mastery and the appearance of mastery. Focusing on precision guides a person toward genuineness and refinement in their craft. Precision entails a deep attentiveness to tone, nuance, intention, and the spirit behind an action. When a musician, for example, prioritizes exactness in sound, rhythm, and expression, they are compelled to develop effective techniques that serve a higher artistic goal. In this process, technique becomes a means, not an end. Precision demands honesty and a relentless pursuit of the finest details, inevitably resulting in the natural acquisition of technique as the artist responds organically to the requirements of faithful expression.

Conversely, centering one’s efforts on technique alone can foster a superficial form of competence that does not guarantee depth or authenticity. Technique mastered for its own sake often leads to mechanical repetition, actions executed flawlessly yet devoid of deeper meaning. Without the anchor of precision, techniques may be executed correctly, but they lack reason and contextual awareness. The technique, in this sense, offers only the shell without the substance. This approach can result in performances, works, or actions that are polished on the surface, but lack true artistic value, character, or insight.

Walter’s observation thus speaks to a hierarchy: technique is subordinate to precision when it comes to achieving genuine artistry, accuracy, or excellence. Precision is about hitting the intended mark; it is intrinsically purposeful. As the search for absolute precision challenges and stretches the artist, they organically absorb and transcend the necessary technical skills. Technique developed in service of precision is alive, adaptive, and meaningful. Therefore, the path to real mastery lies in aspiring toward precision, letting technique emerge naturally from sincere, exacting engagement, rather than fetishizing the mechanics themselves.