Meaning: Alan Hovhaness, an influential American composer of Armenian and Scottish descent, made this statement, reflecting on his early musical experiences and the influence of the piano and orchestra on his career. Hovhaness was known for his unique blend of Western and Eastern musical traditions, and his quote sheds light on the pivotal role that music education and personal interest played in shaping his artistic path.

Hovhaness's statement underscores his initial preference for the orchestra over the piano. This inclination towards the orchestra suggests an early fascination with the rich, collective sound of multiple instruments working in harmony. His interest in the orchestra likely sparked a desire to explore the possibilities of composing for larger ensembles and orchestras, a path that would become a defining feature of his musical legacy.

Despite his stronger affinity for the orchestra, Hovhaness acknowledges that he developed considerable proficiency as a pianist. His teachers recognized his talent and encouraged him to pursue a career as a concert pianist. This acknowledgement of his skill and potential as a pianist highlights the formative role that early mentorship and guidance played in nurturing his musical abilities. It also speaks to the multifaceted nature of Hovhaness's musical talents, indicating that he possessed the technical prowess and artistry required to excel as a pianist.

Hovhaness's teachers' desire for him to pursue a career as a concert pianist sheds light on the prevailing attitudes towards musical careers during his formative years. The emphasis on becoming a "good concert pianist" and earning a living through such a pursuit reflects the traditional view of success in classical music circles at that time. This expectation also underscores the significant commitment and dedication required to establish oneself as a professional musician, particularly in the demanding and competitive realm of classical piano performance.

Ultimately, Hovhaness's career trajectory diverged from the path envisioned by his teachers. While he continued to hone his skills as a pianist, his deeper passion for composition and orchestration ultimately led him to forge a distinctive artistic identity as a composer. His exploration of non-Western musical traditions, modal scales, and mystical themes set him apart from his contemporaries and established him as a pioneering figure in 20th-century classical music.

In retrospect, Hovhaness's quote offers valuable insights into the early influences and pivotal moments that shaped his musical journey. His enduring fascination with the orchestra, coupled with his technical proficiency as a pianist, laid the groundwork for a career marked by innovation, cross-cultural exploration, and a deep reverence for the power of music to transcend boundaries and connect diverse traditions.

In conclusion, Alan Hovhaness's quote encapsulates the interplay between personal inclination, mentorship, and the evolving landscape of musical careers. It serves as a testament to the complex interweaving of passion, talent, and the pursuit of artistic fulfillment in the life of a visionary composer whose enduring impact continues to resonate within the world of classical music.