Meaning: Ikue Mori's quote encapsulates the essence of her approach to music-making, emphasizing the distinction between simply "pushing buttons" and the more immersive experience of playing instruments. As a pioneering figure in the avant-garde and experimental music scene, Mori's work challenges traditional notions of musicality and pushes the boundaries of electronic music performance.

Mori's statement highlights the importance of interaction and liveliness in her creative process. Her background as a visual artist and drummer greatly influences her approach to electronic music, as she infuses her compositions with a sense of tactility and organic expression. While electronic music is often associated with a more detached, button-pushing approach, Mori's perspective underscores the hands-on, instrumental quality she brings to her electronic performances.

One of the key aspects of Mori's work is her use of a laptop as a musical instrument. Rather than treating it as a cold, mechanical device, she imbues it with a sense of warmth and dynamism, manipulating sound in a way that mirrors the physicality of playing traditional instruments. This approach aligns with the broader movement in electronic music to emphasize the physicality and expressiveness of the medium, blurring the lines between traditional and electronic instrumentation.

Mori's emphasis on manipulation and sound as integral components of her music speaks to her deep understanding of the intricacies of electronic sound design. She is known for her ability to coax a wide range of textures and timbres from her instruments, creating immersive sonic landscapes that captivate audiences. Through her skillful manipulation of sound, she elevates the act of electronic music performance to a level that resonates with the artistry and nuance of traditional instrumental playing.

In addition to her technical prowess, Mori's work also reflects a deep appreciation for the collaborative and improvisational aspects of music-making. Her performances often involve spontaneous interactions with other musicians, blurring the lines between composition and improvisation. This approach mirrors the fluid, responsive nature of traditional instrumental performance, where musicians engage in a dynamic dialogue with each other and their instruments.

Mori's innovative approach to electronic music has had a profound impact on the broader musical landscape, inspiring a new generation of musicians to explore the expressive potential of electronic instruments. Her quote serves as a testament to the transformative power of electronic music when approached with the mindset of a traditional instrumentalist, highlighting the rich potential for creativity and human connection within the realm of electronic sound manipulation.

In conclusion, Ikue Mori's quote encapsulates her unique perspective on electronic music performance, emphasizing the interactive, instrumental nature of her approach. By infusing her electronic compositions with a sense of liveliness, manipulation, and collaboration, Mori challenges conventional notions of electronic music as a detached, button-pushing endeavor. Her work serves as a testament to the transformative power of electronic music when approached with the mindset of a traditional instrumentalist, pushing the boundaries of what is possible within the realm of electronic sound manipulation.