Meaning: The quote "Pulse as an active means of expression, Stravinsky and Beethoven are the two masters of that" by Esa-Pekka Salonen, a renowned musician and conductor, highlights the significance of pulse in music as a powerful tool for expression. In this statement, Salonen credits Igor Stravinsky and Ludwig van Beethoven as the two master composers who effectively utilized pulse as a dynamic element in their compositions.

Pulse in music refers to the regular, recurring beat or rhythmic pattern that provides a foundation for the organization of musical time. It is the underlying heartbeat of a piece of music, setting the pace and creating a sense of forward momentum. The concept of pulse is fundamental to the structure and interpretation of music across various genres and styles.

Igor Stravinsky, a pioneering composer of the 20th century, is celebrated for his innovative use of rhythm and pulse in his compositions. His groundbreaking ballets such as "The Rite of Spring" and "Petrushka" showcase his mastery in creating complex rhythmic structures that captivate the listener with their pulsating energy and dynamism. Stravinsky's rhythmic innovations, characterized by irregular and asymmetrical patterns, challenged traditional conventions and expanded the possibilities of musical expression.

Ludwig van Beethoven, a titan of classical music, also demonstrated a profound understanding of pulse and rhythm in his compositions. Beethoven's symphonies, piano sonatas, and string quartets exhibit a remarkable sense of rhythmic drive and urgency, with pulsating motifs and rhythmic patterns that propel the music forward. His use of rhythmic accents and syncopations adds depth and emotional intensity to his works, allowing the pulse to serve as a vehicle for conveying profound emotions and dramatic narratives.

Esa-Pekka Salonen's recognition of Stravinsky and Beethoven as masters of pulse underscores their enduring influence on the evolution of musical expression. Both composers pushed the boundaries of rhythm and pulse in their respective eras, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and resonate with audiences and musicians alike.

In contemporary music, the exploration of pulse as a means of expression remains a vital and evolving aspect of composition and performance. Composers and performers across various genres continue to harness the power of pulse to convey a wide range of emotions, moods, and narratives in their music. From the driving rhythms of popular music genres such as rock, pop, and hip-hop to the intricate rhythmic complexities of contemporary classical and experimental music, pulse serves as a unifying force that engages listeners on a visceral level.

Salonen's acknowledgment of pulse as an active means of expression emphasizes the profound impact of rhythm and pulse in shaping the emotional and aesthetic dimensions of music. By highlighting the contributions of Stravinsky and Beethoven as exemplars of this expressive potential, Salonen draws attention to the enduring relevance of pulse as a fundamental and dynamic element in the art of music.

In conclusion, the quote by Esa-Pekka Salonen sheds light on the significance of pulse as an active means of expression in music, with Stravinsky and Beethoven emerging as exemplary masters of harnessing the power of pulse to convey profound emotions and narratives in their compositions. This recognition serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of rhythm and pulse in shaping the expressive potential of music across diverse genres and eras.