Meaning: The quote by Leo Ornstein, an American composer and pianist, reflects on the impact of recording technology on the way people interact with and appreciate music. Ornstein was known for his innovative and avant-garde compositions, and his thoughts on the role of recordings in music appreciation are insightful and relevant in the context of technological advancements in the music industry.

In the quote, Ornstein acknowledges the transformative nature of recordings in enabling individuals to repeatedly listen to a piece of music until they become familiar with its nuances and intricacies. Prior to the advent of recording technology, the ability to hear a musical piece multiple times was limited to live performances or personal musical proficiency. With the availability of recordings, individuals have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a particular composition, allowing them to develop a deeper understanding and connection to the music.

Ornstein's reference to "getting acquainted with the language" of the music emphasizes the idea that repeated exposure to a recording allows listeners to become fluent in the musical language expressed within the piece. This process of familiarization enables individuals to discern the subtleties and complexities of the music, leading to a more profound engagement with its artistic content.

Moreover, Ornstein highlights the significance of this familiarity in enabling listeners to make an "estimate of the intrinsic, aesthetic value" of the music. By immersing oneself in a recording, individuals can develop an informed perspective on the artistic merit and beauty of the composition. This process of evaluation is facilitated by the ability to engage with the music on a deeper level, thereby enhancing one's capacity to appreciate and recognize the aesthetic qualities inherent in the piece.

The quote also underscores the democratizing effect of recording technology on music appreciation. Prior to the widespread availability of recordings, access to live performances or musical education often determined an individual's exposure to different genres and styles of music. However, with the proliferation of recordings, people from diverse backgrounds and geographic locations have the opportunity to explore and engage with a vast array of musical works, broadening their cultural and artistic horizons.

Furthermore, Ornstein's observation about the "intrinsic, aesthetic value" of music suggests that recordings enable listeners to engage with the essence of a composition, beyond its mere entertainment value. This emphasis on the intrinsic qualities of music encourages a deeper contemplation of its artistic and emotional depth, fostering a more profound and meaningful relationship between the listener and the music.

In conclusion, Leo Ornstein's quote eloquently captures the transformative impact of recording technology on music appreciation. By enabling repeated exposure to musical works, recordings facilitate a more intimate and informed engagement with the artistic content of the music. This enhanced familiarity empowers listeners to discern the aesthetic value of a composition, transcending mere entertainment to appreciate the intrinsic beauty and emotional resonance of the music. Ornstein's insights continue to resonate in an era marked by ongoing technological advancements, underscoring the enduring relevance of recordings in shaping the way we experience and appreciate music.