Meaning: The quote by Claude Arrau encapsulates the essence of interpreting and understanding the meaning of music. The renowned pianist's words emphasize the unique and abstract nature of music, highlighting the importance of delving into the intricacies of its components to perceive its true meaning. Arrau's insight into the interpretation of music resonates with musicians, scholars, and enthusiasts alike, as it sheds light on the profound and multi-layered aspects of musical expression.

Arrau's reference to dealing with notes rather than words underscores the non-verbal and emotive quality of music. Unlike language, which conveys meaning through a structured system of words and syntax, music communicates through the arrangement of sounds, harmonies, and melodies. This distinction emphasizes the intrinsic emotional and sensory impact of music, as it bypasses the constraints of language and connects directly with the listener's emotions and imagination.

Furthermore, the mention of chords, transitions, color, and expression elucidates the diverse elements that contribute to the rich tapestry of musical compositions. Each note, chord progression, and tonal shift contributes to the overall narrative and emotional landscape of a piece of music. The interplay of these elements creates a dynamic and immersive experience, inviting the listener to engage with the nuances and subtleties woven into the musical fabric.

Arrau's assertion that musical meaning is solely based on the written notes underscores the significance of honoring the composer's intentions. The meticulous arrangement of notes and markings on a musical score serves as a blueprint for performers to interpret and convey the intended expression and narrative. It emphasizes the responsibility of musicians to delve into the written composition, extracting its inherent meaning and breathing life into its musical phrases.

The concept of divining the musical meaning encapsulates the process of uncovering the layers of expression embedded within a piece of music. It involves a deep and intuitive engagement with the composition, allowing the performer to channel the essence of the music through their interpretation. This process requires a profound understanding of musical theory, historical context, and artistic sensitivity, as performers navigate the intricate web of musical elements to convey the intended emotional and narrative depth.

Arrau's quote also resonates with the notion of subjective interpretation in music. While the written notes serve as a foundational guide, the nuances of musical expression can elicit a spectrum of emotional responses and personal connections from performers and listeners. This subjectivity allows for a diverse and evolving landscape of musical interpretations, enriching the experience of engaging with a musical work from various perspectives.

In conclusion, Claude Arrau's quote encapsulates the essence of delving into the profound meaning of music, emphasizing the significance of notes, chords, transitions, and expression in conveying the emotional and narrative depth of musical compositions. His words resonate with the timeless and universal nature of music, inviting performers and listeners to embark on a journey of interpretation and discovery as they explore the multifaceted dimensions of musical expression.