Able Quote by Stephen Rea
“When you're playing the part of a saxophone or a trumpet player, both of which I have done, it would be nice to be able to play like John Coltrane, but you can't. Your job is to do something else. And I'm not sure what it is, but I don't think I'd be acting Niels Bohr any better if I went and studied physics for five years.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The New York Times, 1995
You cannot master a skill by imitating a master; you must find your own path.
In simple terms: Imitation limits growth; find your own voice.
Key Takeaway
Focus on your unique strengths.
Themes
creativity
authenticity
skill development
Mood
reflective
inspired
thoughtful
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- musicianship
- career planning
- personal growth
- learning new crafts
Key Concepts
identity
expertise
self‑discovery
Questions to Reflect On
- What unique contribution can you make beyond imitation?
- How do you discover your own strengths?
A Different Perspective
Imitation may be useful for learning basics, but over‑reliance stifles originality.
![“Bob Erlendson, a local piano player, taught me chord structure and which scales go along with them. Later, I began listening to [pianists] Bill Evans and McCoy Tyner. Then I got interested in [saxophonist] John Coltrane.” quote by Lenny Breau](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/827/lenny-breau-65597_bills_bob-erlendson-a-local-piano-player-taugh_772016.jpg)
![“John [Coltrane] was like a visitor to this planet. He came in peace and he left in peace; but during his time here, he kept trying to reach new levels of awareness, of peace, of spirituality. That's why I regard the music he played as spiritual music -- John's way of getting closer and closer to…” quote by Albert Ayler](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/0ad/albert-ayler-43036_awareness_john-coltrane-was-like-a-visitor-to-this_12716.jpg)
