Composer Quote by Ned Rorem
“composition is notation of distortion of what composers think they've heard before. Masterpieces are marvelous misquotations.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Unknown music criticism
Highlights that compositions often reinterpret familiar ideas, creating new artistic value
In simple terms: Music reimagines what we think we know
Appreciate creative distortion as artistic innovation
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- composition workshops
- music education
- creative writing
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does distortion contribute to artistic originality?
- In what ways do “misquotations” enrich a masterpiece?
May undervalue original inspiration in favor of novelty