Meaning: Kurt Masur, a renowned conductor and musician, expressed a profound and insightful sentiment in the quote, "You know as I started as a shy young conductor, I always wanted to cooperate. To build up the musicians. To help them to be better than without a conductor. And sometimes young talented musicians have to be encouraged." This quote encapsulates Masur's approach to conducting and his philosophy on the role of a conductor in leading and nurturing musicians.

Masur's reference to himself as a "shy young conductor" speaks to his humility and self-awareness. Despite his early hesitance, he recognized the importance of cooperation and collaboration in music. This mindset reflects Masur's belief in the power of collective effort and the idea that music is a collaborative art form. Rather than imposing his will as a conductor, Masur sought to work with the musicians, fostering an environment of mutual respect and support.

The phrase "To build up the musicians" underscores Masur's commitment to developing and empowering the members of the orchestra. As a conductor, he understood that his role extended beyond simply keeping time and cueing entrances. He recognized the potential within each musician and endeavored to cultivate their talents, allowing them to reach new heights in their musical expression. This approach aligns with the idea of servant leadership, where the conductor's focus is on enabling and elevating the individuals under their direction.

The notion of helping musicians to be better than they would be without a conductor highlights Masur's belief in the value of leadership and mentorship. A skilled conductor not only guides the ensemble through a performance but also serves as a source of inspiration and guidance for the musicians. Through his words, Masur emphasizes the transformative impact that a conductor can have on the artistic development of the performers, nurturing an environment where each musician can thrive and excel.

Moreover, Masur acknowledges the importance of encouragement, particularly for young and talented musicians. He recognizes that while skill and potential are essential, they must be complemented by support and affirmation. By providing encouragement, a conductor can instill confidence and motivation in the musicians, enabling them to take risks, explore their creativity, and ultimately realize their full potential.

In essence, Masur's quote reflects his humanistic approach to conducting, emphasizing collaboration, empowerment, and support. His words serve as a reminder of the conductor's responsibility not only to lead the ensemble but also to nurture and champion the individual musicians within it. By fostering a culture of cooperation and encouragement, Masur exemplifies the qualities of a conductor who not only elicits exceptional performances but also fosters an environment where musicians can thrive and grow.

Kurt Masur's legacy extends far beyond his musical achievements; his philosophy on leadership and musicianship continues to inspire and resonate with performers and music lovers around the world. Aspiring conductors and musicians can draw valuable lessons from his words, learning the importance of humility, collaboration, and the transformative power of encouragement in the pursuit of musical excellence.