"The first condition for making music is not to make a noise"

The quote "The first condition for making music is not to make a noise" by José Bergamín can be translated as an extensive declaration about the essence and creation of music. At first glance, it appears paradoxical, because music is essentially made up of noises. Nevertheless, upon much deeper reflection, the quote exposes a more nuanced understanding of what music truly represents.

Bergamín appears to be distinguishing between mere sound and music. Sound is generally chaotic and does not have organization, structure, and function. It is the raw product from which music is crafted, however in its unrefined state, it lacks the beauty and significance that music conveys. Music, on the other hand, is an art type that needs intentionality and structure. It is the thoughtful plan of noises, imbued with feelings, rhythms, and consistencies, designed to stimulate a particular response or to communicate a particular message or feeling.

The quote could be suggesting that the process of making music begins with silence and introspection. Before any sound is produced, there must be a concept, an idea, or a feeling to reveal. This silence provides the required area for imagination and inspiration to bloom. The author or artist need to first listen internally, comprehending the emotions and stories they wish to express through their music. Only then can they change these abstract concepts into noise.

Moreover, Bergamín's declaration can also be viewed as an acknowledgment of the importance of clarity and intention in music structure. Musicians and composers are encouraged to surpass the shallow act of producing noise and to strive for deeper expression. The objective is not merely to fill the air with noise however to create an experience that resonates with listeners on an extensive level.

In this sense, the quote encourages us to appreciate music not simply as a collection of noises, but as an effective art type that goes beyond noise and speaks straight to the human soul. It highlights the value of intention, imagination, and expression in the production of really meaningful music.