Meaning: This quote by Michael Schenker, a renowned German rock guitarist, provides insight into the importance of being able to hear oneself while playing music. Schenker emphasizes the significance of being able to hear the sound of his instrument through amplification in order to play with feeling and inspiration, rather than just mechanically. This quote reflects the experiences and perspectives of many musicians who rely on the auditory feedback from their instruments and amplifiers to guide their playing and evoke emotion in their music.

Schenker's statement highlights the crucial role of auditory perception in the creative process of music making. For many musicians, the ability to hear their own playing is essential for capturing the nuances of expression and emotion that are integral to their musical interpretations. This is particularly true for performers who rely on improvisation and spontaneous musical expression, as Schenker alludes to in his emphasis on playing with feeling.

Furthermore, the quote underscores the interplay between sensory perception and musical performance. Hearing oneself while playing allows musicians to monitor their own sound, adjust their playing technique, and respond to the tonal qualities and nuances that are produced. This feedback loop between auditory perception and musical performance is fundamental to the development of a musician's individual style and expression.

Schenker's emphasis on playing with feeling also speaks to the emotional and personal dimensions of music. By highlighting the need to hear the sound of his instrument to inspire his playing, Schenker underscores the intimate connection between auditory perception and emotional engagement in music. For many musicians, the act of listening to their own playing serves as a source of motivation and inspiration, guiding their musical expression and shaping the emotive quality of their performances.

In a broader context, Schenker's quote raises important considerations about the role of technology in shaping musicians' auditory experiences. The use of amplification and sound reinforcement systems not only enhances the volume and projection of musical instruments but also influences the way musicians perceive and interact with their own sound. The ability to control and shape one's own auditory feedback through amplification can have a profound impact on the creative process and performance dynamics.

Overall, Michael Schenker's quote offers a compelling perspective on the significance of auditory perception and self-listening in musical performance. It sheds light on the nuanced relationship between hearing oneself, playing with feeling, and finding inspiration in the sound of one's own instrument. By emphasizing the importance of auditory feedback and emotional engagement in music making, Schenker's quote resonates with musicians and audiences alike, highlighting the profound connection between sensory perception, emotional expression, and the art of musical performance.