I think it all comes back to the individual. My…
“I think it all comes back to the individual. My instrument's just a pile of metal and wood! If you listen to the way I speak I have a lot of rhythm, use a lot of accents. When I'm playing my instrument that concept comes through very clearly. In fact some people who've seen me play have noticed that I'm singing - but it's more that I'm actually speaking. So it's not really about the instrument. But for me, in my thinking, the music is all about the melody. When I compose, 99 percent of the time I start with the melody.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The musician emphasizes melody as the core of music, viewing the instrument as a vehicle for personal expression.
In simple terms: Melody drives music; the instrument is just a tool.
Prioritize melody in composition and performance.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- composing
- live performance
- music education
- studio recording
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your instrument shape your melodic ideas?
- Can melody exist without rhythm?
Focusing solely on melody may overlook rhythmic complexity.