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Aim Quote by Pierre Boulez

“The aim of music is not to express feelings but to express music.” quote by Pierre Boulez
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“The aim of music is not to express feelings but to express music.”

Pierre Boulez

About This Quote

Source Essay: "The Role of Music", 1960

Music should stand on its own, not merely convey emotions.

In simple terms: Music is its own expression.

Key Takeaway

Focus on the structure of sound.

Themes

art music expression creativity

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

theoretical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • composing
  • listening
  • teaching music
  • performance critique

Key Concepts

aesthetic theory musical autonomy emotional vs structural

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can music be purely abstract?
  • What is the listener’s role?
A Different Perspective

Emotions are still inevitable in reception.

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