Meaning: This quote by Jonny Greenwood, a renowned musician and composer known for his work with the band Radiohead and his film scoring, provides insight into his creative process and the considerations that influence his musical compositions. In this quote, Greenwood reflects on his subconscious thought process while creating music, specifically in relation to the scale of the music and its alignment with the scale of the accompanying images.

Greenwood's mention of "having the scale of it matching the scale of the images" suggests a deliberate intention to create music that complements and enhances the visual elements it is paired with. This indicates a deep level of artistic consideration, as he aims to ensure that the music not only stands on its own but also integrates seamlessly with the accompanying visuals, whether they are part of a film, a performance, or another artistic medium.

Furthermore, Greenwood's reference to employing a "string quartet, jazz band and electronic stuff" underscores his versatility and willingness to draw from diverse musical styles and instrumentation to achieve the desired effect. By incorporating elements from classical, jazz, and electronic music, he demonstrates a willingness to experiment and blend genres, creating a unique sonic landscape that can adapt to different visual contexts.

The inclusion of a string quartet suggests an interest in classical and orchestral arrangements, which can evoke a sense of grandeur and emotional depth. This choice aligns with the idea of matching the scale of the music to the scale of the images, as string quartets are capable of producing rich, layered sounds that can amplify the visual narrative they accompany.

In contrast, the mention of a jazz band introduces an element of improvisation, rhythm, and spontaneity. Jazz music often conveys a sense of energy and dynamism, which can inject vitality into the visual experience. The incorporation of jazz elements also hints at Greenwood's willingness to embrace non-traditional structures and harmonies, further expanding the creative possibilities within his compositions.

Additionally, the inclusion of electronic elements reflects Greenwood's engagement with modern technology and sound manipulation. Electronic music provides a wide range of textures and timbres that can add a futuristic or otherworldly dimension to the music, enhancing its ability to resonate with contemporary visual aesthetics.

Overall, Greenwood's quote sheds light on his multi-faceted approach to music composition, emphasizing the importance of aligning the scale and tone of the music with the visual elements it accompanies. His willingness to draw from a diverse range of musical influences and instrumentation reflects a commitment to creating music that is not only compelling on its own but also capable of enhancing and elevating the overall artistic experience. This thoughtful and adaptable approach underscores Greenwood's status as a visionary musician who continually pushes the boundaries of sonic expression.