Meaning: The quote "By reason of weird translation, many such sets of instructions read like poems anyhow" by Brian Ferneyhough, a prominent composer, encapsulates the intriguing relationship between musical notation and language. Ferneyhough's observation alludes to the idea that the technical and precise instructions found in musical scores, often written in a form of musical notation, can sometimes take on a poetic quality due to the inherent challenges of translating abstract musical concepts into written language.

In the realm of music composition, the act of translating abstract musical ideas and concepts into tangible, written notation is a complex and nuanced process. Composers use musical notation to communicate their musical intentions to performers, providing detailed instructions on elements such as pitch, rhythm, dynamics, and articulation. However, the act of translating the intricacies of music into written language can be inherently challenging, often leading to a certain level of ambiguity and interpretation.

This is where the concept of "weird translation" comes into play. In the context of musical notation, "weird translation" refers to the inherent difficulty in accurately capturing the nuances of music through written language. As a result, the instructions and notations found in musical scores can sometimes take on a poetic quality, as they attempt to convey the abstract and expressive nature of music within the confines of written notation. This phenomenon is particularly evident in contemporary and avant-garde music, where composers often push the boundaries of traditional notation, leading to innovative and unconventional ways of representing musical ideas on paper.

Ferneyhough's assertion that "many such sets of instructions read like poems anyhow" speaks to the inherent artistic and expressive nature of musical notation. Despite its primary function as a means of communicating specific musical instructions, written notation can transcend its technical purpose and evoke a sense of poetry and lyricism. This is especially true in the context of avant-garde and experimental music, where composers often challenge traditional notions of notation and embrace a more abstract and open-ended approach to scoring their music.

Furthermore, the quote highlights the idea that the act of interpreting and performing a musical score involves more than just following technical instructions. Performers are tasked with bringing the written notation to life, infusing it with emotion, expression, and artistic interpretation. In this sense, the poetic quality of musical notation serves as a bridge between the composer's creative vision and the performer's expressive realization, allowing for a dynamic and multi-faceted communication of musical ideas.

In conclusion, Brian Ferneyhough's quote sheds light on the fascinating interplay between musical notation and language, emphasizing the poetic and expressive potential inherent in the act of translating musical concepts into written instructions. It serves as a reminder of the intricate and multifaceted nature of musical communication, where technical precision coexists with artistic interpretation, ultimately giving rise to a rich and captivating realm of musical expression.