"When I left Europe in 1987 I did so with the thought that my relevance as a composition teacher would benefit from a certain cool distance to certain tendencies I had been observing for several years with increasing disquiet"

Brian Ferneyhough's statement reflects a mindful decision to distance himself from particular prevailing trends in the European music scene of the 1980s. His remark suggests a reflective and strategic move aimed at maintaining his importance and unbiased perspective as a composition teacher. Ferneyhough may have noticed that staying immersed in those patterns could potentially cloud his judgment or suppress his innovative and pedagogical authenticity.

The expression "cool range" indicates an intentional detachment, recommending that Ferneyhough looked for to observe these propensities with a procedure of objectivity. He might have thought that such distance would permit him to maintain a vital technique to structure, unburdened by the immediate pressures or impacts of modern trends. Using "increasing disquiet" shows a growing issue or pain with the direction these propensities were taking, hinting at possible disputes with his individual creative values or approaches.

In relocating from Europe, Ferneyhough was possibly aiming to rearrange himself in an environment that would provide a fresh viewpoint, perhaps allowing him to improve his pedagogical approach. The choice highlights a commitment to evolving as an educator and composer, rather than conforming to dominating standards that he might have discovered creatively or intellectually suppressing.

This mindful geographical and intellectual repositioning might also reflect a broader style in Ferneyhough's career: the pursuit of innovation and the avoidance of complacency. By stepping far from what he views as possibly limiting impacts, he safeguards his creative autonomy, guaranteeing that his mentor stays dynamic and independently notified.

In general, Ferneyhough's declaration can be seen as an example of an artist's proactive approach to navigating the evolving landscape of his field, selecting to develop area for reflection and development instead of capitulating to possibly short-term or incongruent creative currents.