"To the average mind popular music would mean compositions vulgarly conceived and commonplace in their treatment. That is absolutely false"

John Philip Sousa, a distinguished American composer and conductor, primarily understood for his military and patriotic marches, makes an engaging statement about music in this quote. Initially glimpse, he highlights a typical bias or misconception about music-- that it is simplistic or unrefined, identified as "vulgarly conceived" and "prevalent". However, Sousa counters this view assertively by specifying, "That is absolutely false."

This implies Sousa's recognition of the creative value and complexity that can live in popular music, contrary to what the "average mind" might believe. During Sousa's time, the late 19th and early 20th centuries, music was undergoing significant modifications, with popular musical types starting to diverge from classical customs. This evolution was often met suspicion or contempt by the more standard or elite audiences. Sousa's assertion suggests that dismissing popular music outright disregards its potential for creativity, emotional expression, and its capability to resonate with a broad audience, transcending social and cultural barriers.

By selecting the expression "typical mind", Sousa might be dealing with those who depend on superficial judgments without deeper engagement or understanding of the music itself. It is possible that he is promoting for an open-minded technique to all musical forms, urging listeners to look beyond their preconceived notions and appreciate the subtleties and artistic benefit present in music.

Moreover, Sousa's comment can be seen as an acknowledgment of the dynamic nature of music and its ability to progress and adapt, catching the spirit and beliefs of its time. His statement encourages the acceptance of diverse musical expressions, promoting for the appreciation of popular structures on their own terms instead of subjecting them to the hierarchical requirements of symphonic music. In essence, Sousa is requiring a more comprehensive, more inclusive view of what makes up valuable and significant music.