Meaning: The quote by Brian Ferneyhough, a prominent contemporary composer, encapsulates the complex relationship between creativity and convention within the realm of music composition. In this statement, Ferneyhough suggests that it is comparatively simpler to create a poem that outlines the instructions for adjusting a VCR (videocassette recorder) than it is to compose a musical piece using just tuning as a symphony. This comparison alludes to the contrasting levels of difficulty and intricacy involved in the two creative processes.

To fully grasp the essence of Ferneyhough's quote, it's important to unpack the underlying concepts and contexts. Firstly, the reference to composing a poem as a manual for adjusting a VCR implies a straightforward and functional approach to creativity. The act of writing a manual typically involves clear and precise language that conveys specific instructions for the user. In contrast, the use of just tuning in a symphony requires a deep understanding of musical theory, intricate harmonies, and the ability to manipulate and express complex emotions and ideas through sound.

Ferneyhough's comparison highlights the challenge of working within the constraints of a complex and nuanced system, such as just tuning in music composition. Just tuning, also known as pure tuning or harmonic tuning, is a tuning system based on the harmonic series, where the frequencies of pitches are related to each other by simple whole-number ratios. This contrasts with the more commonly used equal temperament tuning system, which divides the octave into twelve equal parts. The use of just tuning demands a heightened sensitivity to the interplay of frequencies and intervals, making it a demanding approach for composers.

Furthermore, the reference to a symphony, a grand and multifaceted musical composition typically consisting of multiple movements and instruments, adds another layer of complexity to Ferneyhough's comparison. Symphonies are often seen as the pinnacle of orchestral composition, requiring a deep understanding of musical structure, orchestration, and thematic development. By juxtaposing the intricacies of just tuning with the grandeur of a symphony, Ferneyhough underscores the formidable challenge of creating a piece of music that embodies both technical precision and artistic vision.

In essence, Ferneyhough's quote speaks to the inherent tension between creativity and technicality in artistic expression. It underscores the notion that true innovation and creative mastery often arise from navigating and transcending the constraints of established systems and conventions. While it may be easier to craft a utilitarian text like a VCR manual, the true test of artistic skill and vision lies in the ability to harness and transcend the complexities of a highly structured and nuanced framework, such as just tuning in symphonic composition.

In conclusion, Brian Ferneyhough's quote serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the challenges of creative expression within the realm of music composition. By contrasting the relative ease of crafting a utilitarian text with the formidable task of harnessing just tuning in a symphony, Ferneyhough underscores the intricate balance between technical mastery and artistic innovation. This quote invites us to contemplate the profound complexities inherent in the creative process and the enduring quest for artistic excellence.