Meaning: Esa-Pekka Salonen, a renowned Finnish conductor and composer, has expressed a profound desire for the audience to experience music on a physical level. The quote "When we're at the end of The Rite of Spring or of a Bruckner symphony, I want people to feel the music physically" encapsulates Salonen's commitment to creating immersive musical experiences that transcend the auditory realm and resonate deeply within the listeners' bodies and souls.

Salonen's reference to "The Rite of Spring" by Igor Stravinsky and the symphonies of Anton Bruckner is particularly significant. Both composers are known for their ability to evoke intense emotions and provoke visceral reactions through their music. "The Rite of Spring," in particular, caused a sensation upon its premiere in 1913, with its innovative rhythms, dissonant harmonies, and evocative storytelling pushing the boundaries of traditional orchestral music. Similarly, Bruckner's symphonies are celebrated for their monumental scale and emotional depth, often drawing listeners into a transcendent and physically affecting musical journey.

By citing these specific works, Salonen emphasizes the transformative power of music to elicit a physical response. His intention is for the music to move beyond a purely intellectual or emotional experience and to resonate within the bodies of the audience members. This approach speaks to the visceral and primal nature of music, transcending language and culture to communicate directly with the human spirit.

As a musician and conductor, Salonen's perspective is rooted in his deep understanding of the technical and expressive elements of music. He is known for his innovative interpretations and performances, often pushing the boundaries of traditional orchestral repertoire. Through his conducting, Salonen seeks to harness the full potential of the orchestra to create a sonic experience that envelops the audience in a powerful and tangible way.

In practical terms, Salonen's desire for the audience to feel the music physically speaks to the importance of a dynamic and kinetic performance. This involves not only precision and technical excellence from the musicians but also an emotional and physical engagement that permeates the concert hall. Whether through the explosive energy of a climactic passage or the delicate subtlety of a quiet moment, Salonen aims to create an immersive experience that resonates throughout the entire being of the listener.

Furthermore, Salonen's quote also underscores the role of the conductor in shaping the physicality of the musical experience. As a conductor, he serves as the conduit between the composer's intentions and the audience's reception of the music. Through his gestures, expression, and interpretation, Salonen guides the orchestra in delivering a performance that transcends the notes on the page, aiming to provoke a tangible response from the listeners.

In conclusion, Esa-Pekka Salonen's quote encapsulates his commitment to creating transformative and physically affecting musical experiences. By referencing iconic works like "The Rite of Spring" and Bruckner's symphonies, he highlights the capacity of music to evoke a visceral response. Through his innovative conducting and dedication to pushing the boundaries of traditional repertoire, Salonen seeks to envelop the audience in a profound and tangible musical journey, transcending the boundaries of the auditory realm to resonate deeply within the physical and emotional core of the listener.