Composer Quote by Leonard Bernstein
“Even experimental composers, revolutionary composers, self-styled radicals are, in writing revolutionary music, recognizing the music that preceded them precisely by trying to avoid it.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Composer’s Voice, Leonard Bernstein, 1975
Composers seeking to be revolutionary must first understand and then deliberately move away from the traditions that came before them.
In simple terms: Radical music is created by rejecting past styles.
Key Takeaway
Study past music, then innovate beyond it.
Themes
creativity
tradition
innovation
Mood
reflective
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- composing new works
- teaching composition
- curating concerts
- writing music criticism
Key Concepts
musicology
artistic rebellion
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance respect for tradition with the desire to innovate?
- What defines “revolutionary” in your own work?
A Different Perspective
Risk of losing valuable lessons from the past.
