Absolutes Quote by Arthur Rubinstein
“Never sound pompous. You always sound noble, noble. Absolute character of music is nobility. Even popular music can be noble, you see. If it's not noble, then it's not very good... Music is an art of emotion, of nobility, of dignity, of greatness, of love, of tenderness. All that must be brought out in music but never a show of pompousness.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Arthur Rubinstein on Music, 1975
Music should embody nobility and dignity, not pomp;; true art expresses deep emotion and greatness.
In simple terms: Music should be noble, not showy.
Seek depth over flashiness in music.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- concert listening
- music education
- performance critique
- personal listening habits
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What makes music feel noble to you?
- Can simplicity coexist with nobility?
Focusing on nobility may exclude avant‑garde or experimental forms.