Meaning: The quote "When I began competing with the other artists in New York, I discovered classical North Indian music" by Henry Flynt captures the intersection of artistic exploration and the discovery of a new and unfamiliar musical tradition. Henry Flynt, an American philosopher, avant-garde musician, and artist, is known for his unique contributions to the Fluxus movement and his exploration of minimalist and drone music. His quote reflects a pivotal moment in his artistic journey, where he encountered the rich and intricate tradition of classical North Indian music, a discovery that likely had a profound impact on his artistic practice.

Henry Flynt's artistic career was marked by a spirit of experimentation and boundary-pushing across various disciplines. He was deeply involved in the avant-garde art scene in New York City during the 1960s, where he engaged with fellow artists and musicians in a competitive and collaborative environment. It was within this milieu that Flynt's encounter with classical North Indian music took place. The quote suggests that his immersion in the vibrant artistic community of New York prompted him to explore new musical horizons, leading him to the profound and transformative discovery of classical North Indian music.

Classical North Indian music, also known as Hindustani classical music, is a complex and ancient musical tradition that has been nurtured and developed over centuries. It is characterized by its intricate melodic and rhythmic structures, improvisational elements, and deep spiritual and emotional expression. The music is traditionally performed on instruments such as the sitar, tabla, sarod, and flute, and its vocal tradition is equally revered for its technical prowess and emotional depth. The distinct microtonal scales, rhythmic patterns, and ornamentation of Hindustani classical music distinguish it from Western musical traditions, offering a rich and immersive sonic experience.

Flynt's discovery of classical North Indian music likely opened up new sonic landscapes and artistic possibilities for him. The encounter with a musical tradition so different from the Western classical and avant-garde music he was familiar with would have been revelatory, prompting him to explore new modes of expression and expand his creative boundaries. The intricate ragas, tala cycles, and improvisational techniques of Hindustani classical music may have resonated deeply with Flynt, inspiring him to incorporate elements of this tradition into his own musical and artistic practice.

Furthermore, Flynt's quote hints at the transformative power of cross-cultural artistic encounters. His immersion in the competitive artistic environment of New York led him to engage with a musical tradition rooted in a different cultural context, demonstrating the potential for artistic growth through cultural exchange and dialogue. The quote speaks to the universal nature of artistic exploration and the capacity of diverse musical traditions to inspire and enrich one another.

In conclusion, Henry Flynt's quote "When I began competing with the other artists in New York, I discovered classical North Indian music" encapsulates a pivotal moment in his artistic journey, where the vibrant artistic community of New York led him to a profound encounter with the rich and intricate tradition of Hindustani classical music. This transformative discovery likely influenced Flynt's artistic practice, expanding his sonic horizons and inspiring new modes of expression. It also underscores the potential for artistic growth through cross-cultural encounters and the universal resonance of diverse musical traditions.