Ruggiero Ricci Quotes

Powerful Ruggiero Ricci for Daily Growth

About Ruggiero Ricci

Ruggiero Ricci (December 31, 1918 – February 7, 2012) was an Italian-American violinist, known for his virtuosity, expressive interpretations, and unique approach to violin technique. Born in Florence, Italy, he began studying the violin at age four with his father, a professional musician. By the age of seven, Ricci made his first public appearance playing Vivaldi's "Spring" concerto. In 1934, Ricci moved to the United States and continued his studies under the renowned pedagogue Adolf Busch. He soon gained recognition for his extraordinary talent, performing with orchestras such as the New York Philharmonic and the Philadelphia Orchestra. In 1947, he became a naturalized American citizen. Ricci is best known for his innovative approach to violin playing, which involved using the entire body to create sound rather than just the fingers. This method, called "total bow control," allowed him to achieve unprecedented nuance and expressiveness in his performances. His major works include numerous concerto transcriptions, chamber music compositions, and a series of instructional books on violin technique. One of Ricci's most significant contributions to the world of classical music was his collaboration with composer Heitor Villa-Lobos. Together, they created several works, including the Double Concerto for Two Violins and Orchestra, which showcases Ricci's unique style and technical prowess. Throughout his career, Ruggiero Ricci performed worldwide, inspiring generations of violinists with his captivating artistry. He continued to teach, pass on his knowledge, and perform until his retirement in 2005. His influence can still be felt today, as his recordings and teachings continue to inspire violinists around the globe.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"A great violinist is made, not born."

This quote by Ruggiero Ricci implies that being a great violinist (or musician in general) requires dedication, practice, and self-improvement over time rather than innate talent alone. It suggests that while some people may have natural abilities, it's the hard work, determination, and mastery of skills that truly make a virtuoso. In essence, anyone can become a great violinist with consistent effort and passion for their craft.

"Artistic success is the result of hard work and dedication."

This quote emphasizes that artistic achievement, like any other form of success, is earned through diligent effort and unwavering commitment. It suggests that one must consistently put in hard work and dedicate time, energy, and passion towards their craft to ultimately achieve a level of mastery or recognition within the artistic realm.

"The violin is not a mere instrument to be played, but an extension of oneself."

This quote emphasizes that playing the violin isn't just about mastering a musical tool; it's about becoming one with the instrument. It suggests that musicians should view the violin not as something separate from themselves but as an integral part, an extension, of their being. This perspective encourages a deep, personal connection between musician and instrument, fostering self-expression and individuality in music.

"Every day I practice one hour more than other violinists. Therefore I am guaranteed to become the greatest."

This quote suggests that the speaker, Ruggiero Ricci, believes in the power of hard work and dedication as key factors for achieving success or greatness. He posits that by consistently putting in more effort than others through daily practice (one hour more), he is virtually assured of becoming exceptional among his peers. It implies a mindset of outworking others to stand out in one's field. However, it is important to note that while dedication and hard work are crucial, they do not guarantee success, as other factors such as talent, opportunity, and circumstance also play significant roles in shaping outcomes.

"In music, as in life, it's about the journey, not the destination."

This quote emphasizes that the process or journey is more significant than the final outcome in both music and life. It encourages us to focus on the experiences we gain, skills we develop, and emotions we express while engaging in an activity or pursuing a goal. The destination, in this context, represents the end result – whether it's completing a piece of music or achieving a personal objective. However, the true value lies in the journey, which allows for growth, self-discovery, and enrichment along the way.

Of course the most difficult thing on the violin is always intonation. The second one is rhythm. If you play in tune, in time with a good sound that's already high level. Those three are the main things.

- Ruggiero Ricci

Play, Sound, Intonation, Most Difficult Thing

So, first you have to be able to play with a metronome. Then you take your freedom. If you play in an orchestra, you got to watch the conductor, he is like a metronome, but it is more difficult because he can change rhythms.

- Ruggiero Ricci

Play, Like, Rhythms, Orchestra

When you can hear a violinist, that is better than you, then you learn from him, because if you play with somebody who is worse than you, then you go down.

- Ruggiero Ricci

Play, Learn, Go, Violinist

Every violinist has a different style, so it's important to be able to recognise their styles. You don't have to like everyone's style but you have to know these styles.

- Ruggiero Ricci

Important, Everyone, Like, Violinist

A specialist is someone who does everything else worse.

- Ruggiero Ricci

Someone, Specialist, Does, Everything Else

I don't have favourites, I think, when you play, you have to be like a prostitute, you have to love the piece you are playing. Even if you don't like it, you have to play it as if you would like it. Then you are a good interpreter.

- Ruggiero Ricci

Love, Play, Think, Interpreter

A good interpreter can take a piece of bad music and make it sound pretty decent, while a bad interpreter can take good music and make it sound cheap. I can tell that some people have a bad taste, and unlike on the piano, they smear around a lot, that is bad taste.

- Ruggiero Ricci

Sound, Bad, Some, Interpreter

Colour does not make so much difference. Look at the Bach Chaconne: There is not one dynamic mark in the whole Bach Chaconne. Colours do not make so much difference.

- Ruggiero Ricci

Look, Bach, Whole, Colours

Well, rhythm is 90 percent of the interpretation.

- Ruggiero Ricci

Percent, Rhythm, Well, Interpretation

It would be easier to say, what was the difference in style from many years ago. Many years ago, the old violinists, they also had a good technique, they were not tonally as good.

- Ruggiero Ricci

Old, Say, Also, Technique

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