Music Quote by Christopher Small
““The reverence accorded to the composer’s score suggests that it is a sacred object, which is not to be tampered with, whose authority over the actions of all the musicians playing here tonight is absolute, which commands absolute stillness and silence from those devotees who have assembled to hear it performed.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Music and Society by Christopher Small, 1990
Music is treated as a sacred authority that demands absolute silence and reverence from its listeners, shaping collective behavior.
In simple terms: Music is seen as a holy force that commands respect and stillness.
Key Takeaway
Respect the power of shared artistic experience.
Themes
music
ritual
authority
silence
community
Mood
reverent
introspective
serious
Type
theoretical
cultural
When to use this quote
- concert attendance
- religious ceremony
- public speaking
- meditative practice
Key Concepts
aesthetic theory
social cohesion
performance practice
Questions to Reflect On
- How does silence serve power?
- When might breaking silence be vital?
A Different Perspective
The view may ignore music’s capacity for protest and change.
![“Downloading's the same as what I used to do. I used to tape the charts of the songs I liked [off the radio]. I don't mind it. I hate all these big, silly rock stars who moan. At least they're fuckin' downloading your music, you cunt, and paying attention, know what I mean? You should fuckin'…” quote by Liam Gallagher](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/0c7/liam-gallagher-12691_liam-gallagher_downloading-s-the-same-as-what-i-used-to_369.jpg)
