Meaning: This quote by Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, a renowned German lyric baritone and conductor, encapsulates the essence of true artistic immersion. Here, Dieskau reflects on the rare but profound experience of becoming so deeply absorbed in a musical performance that the interpreter's presence seemingly vanishes, allowing the work itself to take center stage. This sentiment not only speaks to the transformative power of music but also underscores the ideal state of artistic interpretation, where the performer becomes a conduit through which the pure essence of the work is channeled to the audience.

In the realm of music, interpretation is a multifaceted endeavor that encompasses technical proficiency, emotional expression, and a deep understanding of the composer's intentions. Yet, the ultimate goal of interpretation is to transcend the self and serve as a vessel for the music's inherent message. When a musician achieves this level of immersion, they are able to transcend their individual identity and become a conduit for the universal language of music. In doing so, they enable the audience to experience the work in its unadulterated form, free from the constraints of personal interpretation.

The notion of "disappearing behind a work" also speaks to the selfless nature of artistic interpretation. Rather than seeking personal acclaim or recognition, the artist surrenders their ego and allows the music to speak through them. This self-effacing act of artistic devotion is a testament to the profound humility and reverence that great interpreters hold for the works they present. It is a willingness to relinquish control and ego in service of the greater artistic truth, allowing the music to resonate with its full emotional and spiritual impact.

Furthermore, the quote alludes to the elusive nature of this ideal state of interpretation. The phrase "it happens all too seldom" acknowledges the rarity of achieving complete artistic transcendence. Indeed, such moments of pure artistic communion are fleeting and precious, often occurring as a result of a confluence of profound preparation, emotional vulnerability, and a receptive audience. The acknowledgment of this rarity serves to underscore the exceptional nature of these transcendent performances, further elevating their significance in the artistic landscape.

Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau's profound insight into the nature of artistic interpretation extends beyond the realm of music and resonates with the broader artistic and creative pursuits. Whether in music, literature, visual arts, or any other form of creative expression, the ideal of disappearing behind one's work remains a guiding principle for artists seeking to unlock the transformative power of their craft. It speaks to the universal quest for artistic authenticity, the pursuit of a state where the artist becomes a transparent conduit for the inherent truth and beauty of their chosen medium.

In conclusion, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau's quote encapsulates the essence of artistic immersion and selfless interpretation. It serves as a poignant reminder of the transcendent moments when the artist disappears behind their work, allowing the pure essence of the art to shine through. This ideal state of artistic communion, though rare, represents the pinnacle of creative expression and the ultimate fulfillment of the artist's role as a conduit for the universal language of art.