Meaning: This quote by Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, a renowned German lyric baritone and conductor, provides insight into his approach to performing lieder concerts. Lieder, a German word meaning "songs," refers to a genre of classical music that features solo voice and piano accompaniment, often setting poetry to music. Fischer-Dieskau's emphasis on singing the works of a single composer in his lieder concerts reflects his desire to immerse the audience in the unique creative world of a specific musical genius.

In Fischer-Dieskau's view, performing a collection of lieder by a single composer allows the audience to gradually immerse themselves in that composer's distinctive style, thematic concerns, and musical language. By focusing exclusively on the works of one composer, Fischer-Dieskau aimed to create a more cohesive and immersive experience for the audience, enabling them to follow the composer's creative journey and gain a deeper understanding of their musical expression.

This approach speaks to the idea of musical programming as a form of storytelling and artistic exploration. Through the careful selection and presentation of a single composer's lieder, Fischer-Dieskau sought to guide the audience on a journey that unfolds through the composer's unique musical perspectives and emotional landscapes. By curating a concert program that showcases the works of a specific composer, Fischer-Dieskau aimed to foster a deeper connection between the audience and the music, inviting them to engage with the nuances and intricacies of the composer's oeuvre.

Fischer-Dieskau's emphasis on the audience being "gradually drawn into a particular creative genius' way of thinking" underscores his belief in the power of music to transport listeners into the inner world of a composer. By presenting a cohesive collection of lieder by a single composer, he aimed to facilitate a more profound and focused engagement with the music, allowing the audience to delve into the composer's creative mindset and artistic vision.

Moreover, Fischer-Dieskau's approach aligns with the notion of creating a thematic and narrative arc within a concert program. By concentrating on the works of a single composer, he sought to establish a coherent and compelling musical narrative that unfolds through interconnected compositions, revealing the depth and breadth of the composer's musical output. This approach not only provides the audience with a more immersive and in-depth experience but also allows for a deeper exploration of the thematic, emotional, and stylistic elements present in the composer's works.

In conclusion, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau's quote sheds light on his deliberate approach to lieder concerts, emphasizing the significance of presenting the works of a single composer to guide the audience into a particular creative world. His commitment to immersing the audience in the unique musical language and artistic vision of a composer underscores the power of music to convey profound emotional and intellectual experiences, fostering a deeper connection between the audience and the composer's creative genius. Fischer-Dieskau's approach exemplifies the art of musical programming as a means of crafting a compelling narrative and inviting the audience to embark on a transformative musical journey.