Meaning: This quote is from the esteemed American composer Elliott Carter, known for his innovative and complex compositions that pushed the boundaries of traditional Western classical music. In this quote, Carter is expressing his surprise at the frequency of performances of his compositions, specifically noting the broadcasting of what he considers to be some of his most advanced and unusual pieces.

Elliott Carter was a highly influential figure in 20th-century classical music, renowned for his intricate and avant-garde compositions. He was born in 1908 and lived to be 103 years old, leaving behind a vast and diverse body of work that continues to be studied and performed by musicians and scholars around the world.

The quote sheds light on Carter's perspective as a composer, revealing his genuine surprise and perhaps even delight at the fact that some of his more challenging and unconventional compositions were receiving attention and airtime. This insight offers a glimpse into the mindset of a composer who was unafraid to push the boundaries of musical expression and was perhaps accustomed to seeing his more experimental works receive less exposure compared to his more accessible pieces.

Carter's compositions are known for their complexity, often incorporating intricate rhythmic patterns, dissonant harmonies, and unconventional instrumentation. His commitment to pushing the boundaries of musical language and structure made his works both challenging and rewarding for performers and listeners alike. Throughout his career, he continued to evolve his style, experimenting with new techniques and forms, and maintaining a keen sense of curiosity and exploration.

The fact that Carter received reports from BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.), a performing rights organization that collects and distributes royalties for public performances of music, indicates his active involvement in monitoring the dissemination of his works. In the mid-20th century, when Carter was at the height of his career, radio broadcasts were an important means of bringing classical music to a wider audience, and composers often paid close attention to which of their works were being selected for airplay.

It's noteworthy that Carter specifically mentions the broadcasting of his "most advanced" and "most unusual" pieces. This suggests that he was aware of the challenges his music posed to listeners and was pleasantly surprised to see these compositions being given exposure in the public sphere. It reflects a sense of validation for a composer who was unapologetically committed to pushing the boundaries of what was considered conventional or accessible in contemporary classical music.

Overall, this quote offers a glimpse into the mindset of a groundbreaking composer who, despite the challenges of creating avant-garde music, found joy and surprise in seeing his most daring works being embraced and disseminated. It speaks to the enduring impact of Elliott Carter's legacy and his unwavering dedication to innovation and creative exploration within the realm of classical music.