Meaning: The quote "By the visual pattern, but mostly I'm guided entirely by my ear, what I hear" by Leo Ornstein, the American composer and pianist, encapsulates the essence of his approach to music composition. Leo Ornstein was known for his innovative and avant-garde compositions, and this quote sheds light on his creative process and the influences that shaped his music.

Leo Ornstein was born in 1893 in Russia and later moved to the United States, where he became a prominent figure in the early 20th-century music scene. He was known for his experimental and unconventional approach to composition, which often incorporated dissonant harmonies, complex rhythms, and a departure from traditional tonal structures. Ornstein's music was a departure from the romantic and classical traditions of his time, and his quote reflects the unique perspective from which he approached his craft.

"When he says, 'By the visual pattern, but mostly I'm guided entirely by my ear, what I hear,' Ornstein is highlighting the interplay between visual and auditory elements in his music. The visual pattern refers to the visual representation of musical scores, which serve as a guide for musicians to interpret and perform the music. However, Ornstein emphasizes that his primary guide is his ear, indicating that his compositions are driven by the sounds and musical ideas that he imagines and hears in his mind.

This statement also suggests that Ornstein's compositions may not adhere strictly to traditional notational conventions or visual patterns, as he prioritizes the auditory experience and the sonic qualities of his music. This aligns with the experimental nature of his compositions, which often pushed the boundaries of tonality and structure.

Ornstein's emphasis on being guided entirely by his ear also reflects his intuitive and instinctual approach to music composition. Rather than relying solely on preconceived visual or theoretical frameworks, Ornstein trusted his musical instincts and inner ear to shape the direction of his compositions. This approach allowed him to explore unconventional musical ideas and create works that were ahead of their time.

Furthermore, Ornstein's statement highlights the importance of aural perception in music. While visual representations of music, such as musical notation, are essential for communicating musical ideas, Ornstein's focus on the auditory experience underscores the fundamental role of listening and hearing in the appreciation and creation of music.

In summary, Leo Ornstein's quote "By the visual pattern, but mostly I'm guided entirely by my ear, what I hear" provides insight into his unconventional approach to music composition. It emphasizes the interplay between visual and auditory elements in his creative process, as well as his intuitive and instinctual reliance on his ear to guide his musical endeavors. This statement encapsulates Ornstein's innovative spirit and the avant-garde nature of his compositions, positioning him as a pioneering figure in the realm of 20th-century music."