Meaning: Esa-Pekka Salonen, a Finnish conductor and composer, made the statement, "I'm still disturbed if a chord isn't together, but your priorities change as you get older." This quote encapsulates the evolving perspective and priorities of a musician as they age. As a musician matures, their focus shifts from the technical precision of musical performance to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the emotional and expressive aspects of music.

In his statement, Salonen acknowledges that the pursuit of technical perfection in music remains important to him. The phrase "disturbed if a chord isn't together" reflects his ongoing commitment to achieving musical excellence and precision. This dedication to technical proficiency is a fundamental aspect of the training and development of musicians, especially in classical music where precision and accuracy are highly valued.

However, Salonen also acknowledges the inevitable evolution of priorities that comes with age and experience. As musicians grow older, their perspective on music broadens, encompassing not only the technical aspects but also the emotional and expressive dimensions of musical performance. This growth in perspective is often accompanied by a greater appreciation for the nuances and subtleties that transcend technical perfection.

As a conductor, Salonen has likely experienced the transformation of his priorities firsthand. The role of a conductor involves not only ensuring the technical precision of a performance but also interpreting and conveying the emotional content of the music to the audience. This dual responsibility requires a deep understanding of the expressive elements of music and the ability to communicate those aspects to the performers and listeners.

In addition to his role as a conductor, Salonen is also a renowned composer. Through his compositional work, he has undoubtedly delved into the creative process, exploring the emotional and expressive potential of music beyond its technical execution. This firsthand experience in composing may have further influenced his evolving priorities as a musician.

Salonen's statement also speaks to the broader theme of personal growth and evolution. As individuals mature, their priorities and perspectives naturally shift, reflecting a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. In the context of music, this evolution may manifest as a greater emphasis on the emotional impact of the music and a recognition of the inherent imperfections that contribute to its beauty and humanity.

Ultimately, Salonen's quote encapsulates the dynamic nature of a musician's relationship with music. It acknowledges the ongoing pursuit of technical excellence while also recognizing the transformative power of music to evoke emotion and meaning. As musicians age, their priorities shift, encompassing a more holistic and nuanced appreciation for the art form they have devoted their lives to mastering.

In conclusion, Esa-Pekka Salonen's statement reflects the evolving priorities of a musician as they mature, acknowledging the ongoing pursuit of technical precision while also embracing a deeper understanding of the emotional and expressive dimensions of music. This evolution is a natural and inevitable part of the growth and maturation of a musician, encompassing a broader perspective that transcends technical perfection and embraces the profound emotional impact of music.