"The art music of the West has developed through out its history by means of individual geniuses, and out of the soil supporting them; non-Western musicians were born, and grew like the grasses of the field"

This quote by Toru Takemitsu highlights the distinct advancement of Western art music. Takemitsu suggests that the growth of this category has been shaped by both private geniuses and the environment in which they were supported. The "soil" represents the cultural and societal impacts that have played a significant function in the development of Western music. On the other hand, Takemitsu notes that non-Western artists have actually emerged and flourished in a more natural manner, similar to the natural growth of grass in a field. This comparison highlights the concept that non-Western music has developed in a more spontaneous and unstructured way, without the very same level of individual genius or societal support. Overall, Takemitsu's quote stresses the distinct and complex nature of the advancement of Western art music.