"You know, they were returning to the language of the people and trying to use musical language, particularly as Copland did to create a musical language in which all Americans would feel that they had a stake"

This quote by Michael Tilson Thomas is referring to the composers of the early 20th century, such as Aaron Copland, who were trying to create a musical language that all Americans could associate with. They were attempting to go back to the language of the people, and create a musical language that was available to all. Copland was especially effective in this endeavor, developing a musical language that was both available and meaningful to all Americans. This musical language was a reflection of the American experience, and allowed all Americans to feel that they had a stake in the music. This quote is a testimony to the success of these composers in producing a musical language that was both meaningful and accessible to all Americans.