"It has to be able to play at the maximum expression and communication in every style, and the only way you can do that is - like Verdi said - working with a file, every day, little by little, until the orchestra's collective qualities emerge"

This quote by James Levine speaks with the value of effort and devotion in order to achieve quality in music. He is recommending that in order to have the ability to play in any style with maximum expression and interaction, one should work diligently and regularly. This resembles what Giuseppe Verdi said, which is that one need to deal with a file, or practice, every day in order to bring out the collective qualities of the orchestra. This quote emphasizes the importance of practice and commitment in order to accomplish excellence in music. It is a tip that hard work and dedication are necessary in order to reach one's objectives. It is also a reminder that the cumulative qualities of an orchestra can just be attained through the effort and dedication of each specific musician.