Big problem Quote by Elliott Carter
“That was one of the big problems when I was at Harvard studying music. We had to write choral pieces in the style of Brahms or Mendelssohn, which was distressing because in the end you realized how good Brahms is, and how bad you are.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Harvard Music Department, 1972
Studying past masters can reveal personal limits, prompting growth beyond imitation.
In simple terms: Learning from masters shows where you stand.
Key Takeaway
Use mastery as a springboard, not a ceiling.
Themes
self‑assessment
growth
musical tradition
Mood
inspirational
thoughtful
Type
educational
reflective
When to use this quote
- composition classes
- personal practice
- mentor feedback
Key Concepts
comparative analysis
creative development
humility
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you turn perceived inadequacy into motivation?
- What steps foster original voice after studying masters?
A Different Perspective
Risk of discouragement from self‑criticism.
![“[Moses] Mendelssohn was a religious Jew. I felt sorry for him.” quote by Elie Wiesel](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/823/elie-wiesel-341_felt_moses-mendelssohn-was-a-religious-jew-i_1164649.jpg)
![“I developed an anger at [Moses] Mendelssohn. Later, I read the book. I realized there was nothing subversive in it.” quote by Elie Wiesel](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/133/elie-wiesel-341_anger_i-developed-an-anger-at-moses-mendelssoh_640846.jpg)
![“I became one of [Moses Mendelssohn] defenders. But then I heard the words "Biblical criticism" again. And, of course, afterward, I studied it more closely.” quote by Elie Wiesel](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bd4/elie-wiesel-341_biblical_i-became-one-of-moses-mendelssohn-defend_468432.jpg)
