Meaning: This quote by Maurice Jarre, a renowned French composer, sheds light on the challenges faced by classical composers in the modern entertainment industry. It reflects the disconnect between traditional music and contemporary popular culture, and the struggle for relevance and recognition that many classical composers experience in today's society.

Jarre's anecdote about the young cinema executive highlights a prevalent issue in the entertainment industry - the prioritization of commercial success and popular trends over artistic merit and historical significance. When Jarre expressed his intention to incorporate two themes from Bach into a soundtrack, the executive's response, "which has been the last hit from that Bach?", epitomizes the prevailing attitude that only recent or popular music holds value in the eyes of the industry. This encounter serves as a poignant commentary on the marginalization of classical music and its composers in modern media and entertainment.

The quote also underscores the diminishing relevance of classical composers within the film industry. Maurice Jarre, known for his iconic film scores in movies such as "Lawrence of Arabia," "Doctor Zhivago," and "A Passage to India," was a prominent figure in the world of film music. However, his experience with the cinema executive reflects the challenges faced by classical composers in an industry increasingly focused on commercial viability and contemporary tastes. Despite his illustrious career, Jarre's encounter with the young executive serves as a reminder of the uphill battle that classical composers face in finding acceptance and appreciation in the modern cinematic landscape.

In a broader context, Maurice Jarre's quote speaks to the broader issue of cultural and artistic preservation. Classical music, including the works of composers like Bach, represents a rich and enduring heritage that has contributed immeasurably to the evolution of music and the arts. However, the dismissive attitude displayed by the cinema executive reflects a troubling trend in which the historical and artistic significance of classical music is overshadowed by the pursuit of commercial success and fleeting trends.

Furthermore, the quote raises questions about the role of education and cultural awareness in shaping the attitudes and perceptions of contemporary audiences, industry professionals, and decision-makers. The lack of familiarity with Bach's music demonstrated by the cinema executive points to a potential gap in knowledge and appreciation for classical music among individuals in influential positions within the entertainment industry. This highlights the need for greater efforts to promote cultural literacy and historical understanding, particularly in fields where the arts intersect with commercial interests.

In conclusion, Maurice Jarre's quote encapsulates the challenges faced by classical composers in navigating an entertainment industry that often prioritizes commercial appeal over artistic and historical significance. It underscores the struggle for recognition and relevance that composers of classical music encounter in a society increasingly focused on the latest trends and popular culture. The anecdote serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving and honoring the rich legacy of classical music and the enduring contributions of composers like Bach, while also highlighting the need for greater cultural awareness and appreciation within the modern entertainment landscape.