Paul Desmond Quotes

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Music is the space between the notes."

Paul Desmond's quote, "Music is the space between the notes," emphasizes that the silent intervals or pauses in a composition are as important as the actual notes themselves. It suggests that the essence of music lies not only in the played tones but also in the silence or tension built by the gaps between those tones. This idea underscores the significance of subtlety, anticipation, and imagination in music creation, highlighting the emotional depth that can be conveyed through both sound and silence.

"If it sounds good, it is."

The quote "If it sounds good, it is" by Paul Desmond emphasizes the subjective nature of art, music in particular. It suggests that there are no hard-and-fast rules for what constitutes 'good' music; rather, it's about the emotional response evoked by a piece. Good music resonates with listeners on a personal level and appeals to their senses, hence the saying "If it sounds good, it is." It encourages us to trust our instincts and embrace the beauty found in the music that moves us.

"I don't think music should be analyzed too much. I think it should just be listened to and felt."

Paul Desmond's quote emphasizes the emotional, intuitive, and subjective nature of music. He suggests that rather than over-intellectualizing or critically analyzing music, it is more beneficial to simply immerse oneself in the experience and let feelings guide one's interpretation. This perspective encourages a personal connection with music, focusing on its emotive power and ability to evoke deep responses from listeners, rather than dissecting its technical aspects.

"The music business is a cruel and shallow money trench, a long plastic hallway where thieves and pimps rule."

This quote by Paul Desmond suggests that the music industry can be an unforgiving environment characterized by greed, deceit, and exploitation. The "money trench" metaphor implies it's a ruthless pursuit of financial gain without regard for artistic integrity or genuine connection with the audience. The "long plastic hallway" imagery portrays an industrialized, impersonal setting where those who control the industry – often seen as thieves and pimps – wield power over artists. This quote reflects a cynical view of an industry that can sometimes prioritize profits over creative expression and artist development.

"You play a love song and suddenly people fall in love with each other because the melody stirs up their emotions, but if you played a death march it would probably have the opposite effect on them."

This quote by Paul Desmond suggests that music has the power to evoke strong emotions within us. When we listen to a love song, its melody can stir feelings of love and affection in people, bringing them closer together. Conversely, if we were to play a somber or sad piece like a death march, it may create a sense of melancholy or sorrow that could potentially have a cooling effect on emotions and interactions between individuals. In essence, music can significantly influence the emotional dynamics around us.