"I would listen to something on the radio and try to tap out the melody, then the harmonies"

In this quote, "I would listen to something on the radio and attempt to tap out the melody, then the harmonies", Michel Legrand-- a prominent composer, conductor, and jazz pianist-- captures the essence of a deeply user-friendly and organic technique to music. Legrand's words suggest a procedure of discovery and creation that starts with eager listening. The radio, an available medium broadcasting a broad variety of music, serves as his initial source of artistic inspiration. This illustrates not just the democratization of music however also how creativity can be triggered by everyday interactions with the world.

"Tap out the tune" highlights a hands-on approach of engagement with music. The act of physically tapping out rhythms or notes underscores a tactile connection to sound, where each note and its sequence become a type of language that Legrand aspires to decipher. It recommends an intimacy with music where one begins with the basic component of a piece-- the melody, which brings the primary musical ideas and emotions.

The subsequent focus on "then the consistencies" implies a layered understanding of music composition. Melodies and harmonies in mix create the richness and depth in music, with harmonies offering color and emotional subtlety to the primary melody. By shifting his focus from tune to harmony, Legrand acknowledges the complexity and subtlety associated with crafting a total and resonant piece of music.

Legrand's quote reveals his procedure as one of cautious deconstruction and restoration. It reflects a musician's journey from standard to complex, from viewing surface elements to understanding much deeper structures. His technique exhibits how musicians develop their ear for music, improving their ability to appreciate and create advanced and harmonious structures. Ultimately, this technique highlights how foundational elements of music can lead to ingenious and expressive artistry.