Meaning: This quote by the renowned American composer Elliott Carter provides a glimpse into his early musical influences and the role of his family in fostering his love for music. Elliott Carter was born in New York City in 1908, and he went on to become one of the most respected and influential composers of the 20th century. Throughout his long and prolific career, Carter's music was known for its complex rhythms, innovative use of harmony, and expressive intensity.

In the quote, Carter reflects on his early childhood and the impact that music had on him during that formative time. He begins by emphasizing the significance of his youth, stating, "Well when I was young, when I was very young, when I was a little boy." This repetition underscores the importance of his early experiences and suggests that his love for music was cultivated from a very early age.

Carter goes on to mention a specific article in the Brooklyn Daily written by his Aunt, which highlights his ability to choose phonograph records. This anecdote sheds light on the supportive environment in which Carter was raised, where his family recognized and encouraged his musical interests. The fact that his Aunt took the time to write about his musical preferences in a local newspaper demonstrates the value placed on his passion for music within his family.

The mention of phonograph records also provides insight into the technology and musical resources available during Carter's childhood. The phonograph was a revolutionary invention that allowed for the recording and playback of sound, and it played a crucial role in the dissemination of music during the early 20th century. For a young Elliott Carter, the ability to select and listen to phonograph records would have been a formative and influential experience, shaping his musical tastes and providing access to a wide range of musical styles and genres.

Furthermore, the quote offers a glimpse into the musical environment of Carter's youth. While he admits that he does not remember the specific music he heard during that time, the presence of phonograph records in his life suggests that he was exposed to a diverse array of musical styles and influences. This early exposure likely played a role in shaping Carter's own musical compositions and broadening his understanding of music as a whole.

In conclusion, Elliott Carter's recollection of his early experiences with music provides valuable insight into the factors that shaped his musical development. The support of his family, the accessibility of phonograph records, and the musical environment of his youth all played a crucial role in laying the foundation for his future career as a groundbreaking composer. This quote serves as a testament to the profound impact of early experiences on the trajectory of an artist's life and work, and it offers a glimpse into the formative years of one of the most significant figures in 20th-century classical music.