The quote speaks about a young musician's intense focus on understanding their instrument at a fundamental level. The speaker describes spending an entire hour playing just one note on the violin, immersing themselves in the sound and feel of it to gain a deeper appreciation for its unique qualities.
This practice reflects a profound approach to mastering any craft or skill, emphasizing the importance of delving into the minutiae to understand the essence of what one is working with. It suggests that true expertise comes from not just playing many notes but also understanding each note's resonance and character in isolation. This method fosters an intimate relationship between the musician and their instrument, allowing for a more nuanced and expressive performance.
The quote is attributed to Andrew Bird, an American multi-instrumentalist known for his unique blend of violin virtuosity and songwriting skills. His approach to music, as illustrated by this quote, showcases a dedication to understanding every facet of his craft with precision and depth.
