Meaning: This quote by Esa-Pekka Salonen, a renowned Finnish conductor and composer, provides insight into the challenges of managing sound and acoustics in orchestral music. As a musician and conductor, Salonen recognizes the complex dynamics involved in creating a balanced and harmonious sound within an orchestra. The quote reflects his awareness of the intricacies of musical performance and the importance of understanding how each musician perceives their own sound and interacts with others in the ensemble.

In the context of orchestral music, the sound is a critical element that directly impacts the quality of the performance. Achieving a cohesive and balanced sound requires careful attention to the individual contributions of each musician and an understanding of how those contributions blend together to create a unified musical expression. Salonen's reference to "difficulties getting used to the way every musician can hear his or herself" highlights the challenge of reconciling individual perceptions of sound with the collective goal of achieving a unified, harmonious performance.

One of the key challenges mentioned in the quote is the way each musician hears themselves and how this perception influences their performance. The acoustics of different instruments, the positioning of musicians within the ensemble, and the physical layout of the performance space all play a role in shaping how musicians perceive their own sound. Furthermore, individual musicians may have varying levels of experience and proficiency, leading to differences in how they perceive and project their sound within the ensemble.

Moreover, the interaction between musicians in an orchestra is a crucial aspect of achieving a balanced and cohesive sound. Each musician's playing has an impact on the overall sound, and their ability to listen and respond to the sound of their fellow musicians is essential for achieving musical coherence. Salonen's reference to "the way each of them relates to the musician in the next seat" underscores the interconnected nature of orchestral performance, where each musician's contribution is intertwined with those of their colleagues.

The quote also highlights the role of the conductor in shaping the sound of the orchestra. A conductor must not only interpret the musical score and convey their artistic vision but also navigate the complex dynamics of sound production within the ensemble. This involves shaping the sound through expressive gestures, providing clear direction to the musicians, and making adjustments to balance and blend the various sections of the orchestra.

In conclusion, Esa-Pekka Salonen's quote encapsulates the multifaceted nature of managing sound in orchestral music. It underscores the challenges of reconciling individual perceptions of sound, navigating the interactions between musicians, and shaping the collective sound of the ensemble. Understanding and addressing these complexities are essential for achieving a cohesive and expressive musical performance.