"Pianists don't argue too much generally because we have such a hard time just getting things right; arguing is for string players"
About this Quote
Emanuel Ax, a popular pianist, humorously records the essence of the pianist's journey and contrasts it with the frequently held stereotypes of musicians from different crucial backgrounds. In this quote, Ax playfully highlights the intense commitment and focus needed by pianists to master their instrument. The piano, with its huge variety and complexity, demands a high level of accuracy and understanding, often leaving little space for extraneous activities, such as arguing.
Ax recommends that pianists are mainly occupied with the obstacles intrinsic in their own craft. The implication is that mastering the piano requires such concentration and continuous effort that there's just no time or energy left for disagreements. Pianists are often alone in their practice, focusing intensely on strategy, interpretation, and the emotive capacity of their instrument. This singular dedication most likely fosters a culture where arguments or arguments are less frequent or prioritized.
Contrastingly, Ax humorously alludes to a stereotype about string gamers, inferring that they might be more susceptible to disputes. This could be due to the collaborative nature of much of their music, such as in chamber ensembles and orchestras, where stabilizing individual expression with group cohesion can sometimes lead to varying opinions. The stereotype highlights the singing disputes string gamers might take part in while looking for unity in analysis and execution in ensemble settings.
This quote serves not just as a light-hearted observation from a veteran musician however also supplies an insight into the more comprehensive characteristics and cultures within the world of classical music. Whether true or overstated, such differences highlight the varied obstacles and environments encountered by musicians based upon their picked instruments. Ax's statement welcomes reflection on how different musical journeys form the personalities and interactions of artists.
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