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Music Quote by Ted Gioia

“As recently as the twentieth century, some cultures retained religious prohibitions asserting the “uncleanliness” of believers eating at the same table as musicians.” quote by Ted Gioia
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““As recently as the twentieth century, some cultures retained religious prohibitions asserting the “uncleanliness” of believers eating at the same table as musicians.””

Ted Gioia

About This Quote

Source Book: The History of Jazz by Ted Gioia, 1997

The quote notes that up until the 1900s, certain societies considered sharing a meal with musicians impure, reflecting deep cultural taboos linking music to moral status.

In simple terms: Some cultures once saw eating with musicians as unclean.

Key Takeaway

Recognize how cultural biases can marginalize art forms.

Themes

cultural bias music social norms

Mood

reflective critical

Type

historical sociocultural

When to use this quote

  • anthropology research
  • cultural studies
  • music education
  • community events
  • intercultural dialogue

Key Concepts

taboos purity concepts social exclusion

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do modern attitudes toward musicians differ from those historical views?
  • What lingering biases affect artists today?
A Different Perspective

Such prohibitions often stem from broader class or religious hierarchies, limiting artistic integration.

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