Why a Skilled Musician Can Be Considered Better Than Another
The question of why one skilled musician is considered better than another, particularly when both can play the same piece on the same instrument, is one that has puzzled music enthusiasts for generations. This question has been eloquently answered by the renowned pianist Arthur Schnabel: ‘I play the notes no better than other pianists, my art is playing the cracks between the notes.’
Exemplified Through Reading a Shakespeare Soliloquy
Imagine two individuals, one a professional Shakespearean actor, and the other a local store employee. Both read a Shakespeare soliloquy accurately: every word in the correct order, devoid of mistakes. Where would the clear difference lie? In the ability to convey the deeper meaning, the emotion, the character, and the atmosphere that comes from a profound understanding of the text. Similarly, a skilled musician’s artistry lies not just in the notes they play, but in the nuances they bring to the music.
The Nuances That Define Great Musicians
Virtuosity in playing an instrument is just the beginning. A tremendous pianist or violinist must offer more than just precise notes. They must convey the emotions, the spirit of the music, and the narrative that lies between the lines. This is what Schnabel referred to as 'the cracks between the notes,' the spaces and gaps that give life to the performance and make it truly meaningful.
Musicianship is More Than Just Playing Correctly
When two musicians play the same piece correctly, one might still be considered better. This betterment is not about the technical perfection, but about the emotional and artistic interpretation. It is about the artist’s ability to connect with the audience, to convey the essence of the music and the composer's intentions. In other words, it is about the musician's unique musical language and their ability to make the music speak to their listeners.
Comparing the Cat and Music
Consider a description of a house cat: you might know her dimensions, her color, and even her basic personality. But the stories about her – her sassiness, her love for cuddles, her attempts at manipulating you with pity, her adjustment to house life – divulge something far more profound. These stories reveal her character, her quirks, her personality, and even your relationship with her. In much the same way, music is more than just the notes and rests on a page. It is a conversation between the composer, the musician, and the listener.
The Misuse of 'Better' in Musical Context
Precision and accuracy are essential, but they are not enough when it comes to truly exceptional musicians. The term 'better' can be subjective and misleading. It is often more informative to use phrases like 'likeable for me.' This approach acknowledges that greatness in music is a matter of personal taste and interpretation. Terms like 'best,' 'greatest,' and 'supreme' are grandiloquent and often not reflective of the nuances that truly great musicians bring to their performances.
Conclusion
The art of music is about much more than just playing the notes. It is about interpretation, emotion, and the deep connection between the performer and the listener. As Arthur Schnabel so poignantly noted, it is about 'playing the cracks between the notes.' In evaluating musicians, it is crucial to look beyond technical perfection and appreciate the artistry that infuses their performances. Only then can we truly understand why one musician might be considered better than another.