"Music is at once the product of feeling and knowledge, for it requires from its disciples, composers and performers alike, not only talent and enthusiasm, but also that knowledge and perception which are the result of protracted study and reflection"
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Alban Berg's quote records the double nature of music as both an emotional and intellectual pursuit. The phrase "Music is at when the product of sensation and understanding" sets the stage for understanding music as an art form rooted in both instinctive emotion and informed intelligence. Berg suggests that music springs from the depths of human feeling, working as a vehicle for psychological expression. It is through music that authors and performers can convey intricate emotions which may be difficult to articulate with words alone. This element of music is what resonates with listeners on a visceral level, making it a universal language of sorts.
Nevertheless, Berg immediately stabilizes this notion of emotional spontaneity with the requirement of "knowledge". Unlike other art kinds where raw skill might be adequate, music demands an extensive foundation of technical know-how and understanding. Composers must be versed in various elements of music theory, including harmony, tune, rhythm, and structure. Similarly, performers need to master their instruments, and understand the subtleties of articulation, dynamics, and phrasing. This knowledge sets the specifications within which feeling can be efficiently communicated.
The mention of "drawn-out research study and reflection" is Berg's acknowledgment of the time and effort purchased mastering music. It is this reflective practice that changes talent into artistry. Authors and performers dedicate many hours to improving their skills, typically examining and analyzing existing works to deepen their own understanding. Interest alone is inadequate; it should be transported and cultivated through disciplined learning.
In essence, Berg's quote highlights the detailed balance needed in music in between unchecked feeling and disciplined intellect. It is this synthesis that enables music to be both profoundly moving and intellectually pleasing, protecting its place as a revered and timeless art form.
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