Meaning: Morton Feldman, an American composer known for his unique approach to music, expressed his perspective on the importance of experiencing an instrument through performance in the quote, "For me it's the instrument. If I want to think of a flute and the state of the arts I hear a vibrato; I don't know what a flute is unless the person plays it for me." This quote encapsulates Feldman's belief in the essential connection between the instrument and the act of playing it, as well as the significance of live performance in conveying the essence of an instrument.

Feldman's viewpoint emphasizes the intimate relationship between a musician and their instrument. He suggests that merely thinking about a flute or any other instrument is insufficient for understanding its true nature. Instead, the instrument comes to life and reveals its essence when it is played by a skilled musician. This perspective aligns with Feldman's own experimental and deeply personal approach to composition, in which he often explored the sonic possibilities of instruments through close collaboration with performers.

The mention of vibrato in the quote also alludes to the expressive qualities of instrumental performance. Vibrato, a slight fluctuation in pitch that adds warmth and emotion to a musical note, is a technique commonly associated with string and wind instruments. By referencing vibrato in relation to the flute, Feldman may be highlighting the unique nuances and expressive potential of each instrument, which can only be fully appreciated through the act of performance.

Furthermore, the phrase "the state of the arts" in Feldman's quote suggests a broader context for understanding the significance of instrumental performance. It implies that the vibrancy and vitality of the arts, including music, are intimately tied to the act of experiencing and engaging with the instruments themselves. In this sense, Feldman emphasizes the tangible, sensory experience of witnessing a musician play an instrument as a fundamental aspect of understanding and appreciating the art form.

Feldman's words also underscore the importance of live performance in conveying the true essence of an instrument. While recordings can capture the sound of an instrument, they may not fully encapsulate the tactile and visual elements of a live performance. Seeing and hearing a musician play an instrument in person can provide a multifaceted understanding of its capabilities, timbre, and expressive potential. This aligns with Feldman's own emphasis on the physical and spatial aspects of sound in his compositions, as well as his interest in the unique qualities of live performance as a mode of artistic expression.

In conclusion, Morton Feldman's quote encapsulates his belief in the intrinsic connection between the instrument and the act of playing it, as well as the significance of live performance in conveying the essence of an instrument. He emphasizes the intimate relationship between a musician and their instrument, the expressive qualities of instrumental performance, and the tangible, sensory experience of witnessing a live performance. This perspective offers valuable insights into the nature of musical expression and the vital role of performance in understanding and appreciating the art of music.