Am Quote by Ravi Shankar
“In India, I have been called a 'destroyer.' But that is only because they mixed my identity as a performer and as a composer. As a composer I have tried everything, even electronic music and avant-garde. But as a performer I am, believe me, getting more classical and more orthodox, jealously protecting the heritage that I have learned.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The New York Times, 1975
He explains that others label him a “destroyer” because they conflate his roles as performer and composer, leading to misunderstandings about his artistic choices.
In simple terms: People misinterpret his identity, mixing his performance and composition work.
Key Takeaway
Clarify your artistic identity to avoid mislabeling.
Themes
identity
artistic integrity
cultural heritage
misinterpretation
Mood
reflective
defensive
Type
personal
explanatory
When to use this quote
- concert programming
- recording projects
- educational workshops
- collaborations with electronic artists
Key Concepts
musicology
genre blending
cultural preservation
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you separate audience expectations from personal artistic growth?
- What steps can you take to communicate your dual roles more clearly?
A Different Perspective
His label may overlook the nuance of his evolving style.
