Kurt Masur Quotes

A collection of quotes by Kurt Masur.

Kurt Masur (1927-2015) was a renowned German conductor and music director. He served as the principal conductor of the Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra for almost three decades (1970-1996), during which time he is credited with revitalizing the ensemble and enhancing its international reputation. Masur was also the music director of the New York Philharmonic from 1991 to 2002, leaving a lasting impact on the orchestra's sound and repertoire. He was highly regarded for his interpretations of Romantic and Germanic composers, and his commitment to promoting peace and unity through music.

The message of music was also the first thing what I learned

The message of music was also the first thing what I learned from my first teacher. She was an organist too and she was very devoted to what she played, so she had a respect for every piece and she felt that she is not allowed to add something of her own.

Respect

I worked on scores. I went to the musical library in Berlin

I worked on scores. I went to the musical library in Berlin which is very famous. I discovered that we had scores of Beethoven, printed scores of Beethoven, that are full of mistakes. Not the wrong or false notes, but the wrong dynamic, understandable things.

Famous

Since the composer has said everything, if you discover ever

Since the composer has said everything, if you discover everything, it will be enough and you will be a happy man. Don't try to say it's your taste, and because of that you are changing this or that. And I must say this respect is still there.

Respect