Meaning: The quote "If the seams are showing, there is something wrong with the performance or the construction of the piece. This idea is completely at odds with our modern visual experience, because everything today is based on montage" by Esa-Pekka Salonen, a renowned musician and composer, speaks to the concept of seamlessness in art and performance. In this quote, Salonen suggests that in the realm of classical music, any visible "seams" or flaws in the performance or construction of a piece indicate a problem. He contrasts this with the modern visual experience, where the concept of montage, or the seamless blending of different elements, is prevalent.

In classical music, the term "seams" can be understood as any visible or audible imperfections in a performance or in the structure of a composition. This can include technical errors by the musicians, inconsistencies in the interpretation of the music, or flaws in the overall composition itself. In the context of a live performance, the seamless execution of a piece is often seen as a hallmark of skill and professionalism. When the seams are visible, it can detract from the overall impact and beauty of the music.

Furthermore, Salonen's reference to the modern visual experience and the prevalence of montage in contemporary art and media is thought-provoking. In the realm of visual arts, particularly in film and video production, the concept of montage involves the seamless integration of different shots, scenes, or visual elements to create a cohesive and compelling narrative. The viewer is often unaware of the individual components that make up the montage, as they are presented in a seamless and polished manner.

The contrast that Salonen draws between the classical music tradition and the modern visual experience raises interesting questions about the evolution of artistic standards and audience expectations. In classical music, the pursuit of perfection and seamlessness has long been a central tenet of performance practice. Musicians strive to deliver flawless renditions of complex compositions, aiming to create an immersive and transcendent experience for the audience. Any visible seams in the performance are seen as detracting from this ideal.

On the other hand, the prevalence of montage in contemporary visual media reflects a shift in aesthetic sensibilities and storytelling techniques. The deliberate juxtaposition and seamless integration of disparate visual elements have become integral to the language of modern film, television, and digital content. The audience has become accustomed to experiencing narratives that are constructed through seamless montage, where the individual components blend together to create a cohesive whole.

Salonen's observation invites us to consider the implications of seamlessness in different artistic disciplines and the changing expectations of audiences. It prompts us to reflect on the role of imperfection and visibility in art and performance. In classical music, the pursuit of seamlessness may be rooted in the desire to transport the audience to a transcendent realm, free from distractions or disruptions. Conversely, in the modern visual experience, the deliberate use of montage and the acceptance of visible seams may serve to engage the audience in a more interactive and thought-provoking manner.

In conclusion, Esa-Pekka Salonen's quote offers a thought-provoking commentary on the concept of seamlessness in art and performance. It invites us to consider the evolving standards and expectations within different artistic disciplines and prompts us to reflect on the role of imperfection and visibility in shaping our aesthetic experiences. Whether in classical music or contemporary visual media, the notion of seamlessness continues to spark meaningful conversations about the nature of artistic expression and the ways in which we engage with the creative work of others.