Meaning: Marian McPartland, a renowned jazz pianist and composer, expressed her preference for playing in less conventional keys in the quote, "I love to play in the different keys like B or F sharp, or keys that most people don't play in, because they have a better resonance or something. I'm really not fond of F and C. I just stay away from those if I can." This quote sheds light on McPartland's unique approach to music and her inclination towards exploring lesser-used keys to achieve a distinctive resonance in her performances.

McPartland's statement reflects her deep understanding of the tonal qualities associated with different keys in music. In Western music, each key has its own unique sound and characteristics, and musicians often have personal preferences based on the emotional or sonic qualities of each key. McPartland's preference for keys like B or F sharp, which are less commonly used in popular music, suggests her inclination towards exploring the full range of tonal possibilities available to her as a musician. By venturing into these less conventional keys, McPartland sought to harness their distinct resonance and unlock their creative potential in her musical expression.

Furthermore, McPartland's aversion to keys like F and C highlights her discerning approach to selecting keys for her performances. While F and C are among the most commonly used keys in music due to their relative simplicity on the piano and other instruments, McPartland's avoidance of these keys indicates her desire to transcend the conventional and seek out richer, more complex tonalities. Her deliberate avoidance of these keys suggests a commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional musical norms and embracing the challenges and rewards of exploring less familiar tonal landscapes.

In addition to her personal preferences, McPartland's statement also offers insight into the broader creative process of musicians and the significance of key selection in shaping the emotional impact of a musical piece. The choice of key can profoundly influence the mood, color, and overall feel of a composition, and experienced musicians like McPartland are attuned to the subtle nuances and expressive possibilities inherent in different keys. Through her deliberate exploration of less common keys, McPartland demonstrated a dedication to expanding the sonic palette available to her and seeking out the most resonant and evocative tonalities for her artistic endeavors.

Overall, Marian McPartland's quote about playing in different keys illuminates her distinctive approach to music and her commitment to seeking out keys with unique resonance and expressive potential. Her willingness to depart from convention and embrace less familiar tonalities reflects a spirit of artistic exploration and a deep understanding of the emotional and sonic impact of key selection in music. As a pioneering musician and composer, McPartland's perspective on keys serves as a reminder of the boundless creative possibilities that emerge from venturing beyond the familiar and embracing the full spectrum of tonal expression in music.