Appeals Quote by Gavin Bryars
“The virtuoso element in jazz playing, all those very fast runs in the upper extremes, simply doesn't appeal to me. That's why I don't want to make my concerto "virtuosic" in the sense of a technical show-off. I want a beautiful sound and a melodic and lyrical line. I am more interested in the way someone can play musically.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Art of Concerto Writing, 2015
The composer prefers musicality and lyrical beauty over technical flashiness in his work.
In simple terms: He values sound and melody more than fast, showy runs.
Focus on musical expression, not virtuosity.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- concert programming
- composing
- performance
- teaching
- listening
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance technical skill with emotional depth?
- What makes a performance feel musically satisfying?
Technical showiness can distract from emotional impact.