Meaning: This quote by Artur Schnabel, a renowned musician and pianist, reflects his unique perspective on the role of a performer and the experience of music. Schnabel was known for his insightful and often humorous observations about music and performance, and this quote is a perfect example of his wit and wisdom.

At first glance, the quote may seem lighthearted, even a bit cheeky. Schnabel is acknowledging that as the performer, he is the one who gets to enjoy the music while the audience pays for the privilege of listening. However, beneath the humor, there is a deeper truth about the nature of musical performance and the relationship between the performer and the audience.

Schnabel's statement can be interpreted as a commentary on the dual nature of the performer's experience. On one hand, the performer has the unique privilege of bringing the music to life, of experiencing the joy and fulfillment of artistic expression. This is a deeply personal and often transcendent experience, one that can be profoundly satisfying for the performer.

On the other hand, there is also an element of responsibility and pressure that comes with being a performer. The audience's expectations, the scrutiny of critics, and the demands of the music itself can create a significant amount of stress and anxiety for the performer. In this sense, Schnabel's comment can be seen as a wry acknowledgment of the challenges and sacrifices that performers must endure in order to bring music to the world.

Moreover, the quote also highlights the symbiotic relationship between the performer and the audience. While Schnabel humorously emphasizes his own enjoyment, he is also implicitly acknowledging the importance of the audience's role in the musical experience. Without an audience to listen and appreciate the music, the performer's efforts would be in vain. In this way, Schnabel's quote serves as a reminder of the essential connection between performer and audience, each fulfilling a crucial role in the shared experience of music.

It's worth noting that Schnabel was known for his deep understanding of the music he performed, as well as his dedication to interpreting the intentions of the composers. His performances were characterized by their emotional depth and intellectual rigor, and he was highly respected for his insightful musical interpretations. With this in mind, it's possible to interpret Schnabel's quote as a reflection of his own deep connection to the music he played, as well as his awareness of the impact it had on his audiences.

In conclusion, Artur Schnabel's quote encapsulates the complex dynamics of musical performance, highlighting the interplay between enjoyment and responsibility, performer and audience. It offers a playful yet thought-provoking perspective on the experience of music from the vantage point of a seasoned and insightful musician. Schnabel's words remind us of the profound and multifaceted nature of music, as well as the intricate relationship between those who create it and those who experience it.