Meaning: This quote by Kiri Te Kanawa, a renowned New Zealand soprano, provides an interesting perspective on the experience of listening to music. In this quote, Kanawa expresses her preference for Wagner's orchestral music over vocal music when she is alone at home. She explains that she finds it illuminating not to have to pay attention to voices in the recordings.

Kiri Te Kanawa's preference for Wagner's orchestral music over vocal music when she is alone at home reveals her personal inclination towards instrumental music. Wagner's orchestral compositions are known for their grandeur, complexity, and emotional depth. They often convey powerful narratives and evoke intense emotions without the need for vocal accompaniment. Kanawa's appreciation for this aspect of Wagner's music suggests that she finds the instrumental elements to be particularly captivating and fulfilling.

The statement also implies that Kanawa values the opportunity to immerse herself in the purely instrumental aspects of music without the distraction of vocal performances. This indicates a desire to focus on the intricate melodies, harmonies, and orchestration that are distinctive to orchestral compositions. By eliminating the presence of vocal performances, Kanawa may find that she can better concentrate on the nuances and subtleties of the music itself, allowing for a deeper and more introspective listening experience.

Kiri Te Kanawa's perspective may also stem from her professional background as a soprano. As a highly acclaimed opera singer, she has spent much of her career performing vocal music and collaborating with other vocalists. Her preference for instrumental music when she is alone at home could be a way for her to engage with a different aspect of the musical landscape and to appreciate the artistry of instrumental compositions in a more personal and intimate setting.

Additionally, Kanawa's statement sheds light on the impact of the environment on one's musical preferences. The choice to listen to Wagner's orchestral music specifically when alone at home suggests that she associates this genre with solitude and introspection. The absence of vocal music during these moments may allow her to create a tranquil and contemplative atmosphere, enabling her to fully engage with the emotional and aesthetic dimensions of the orchestral pieces.

In conclusion, Kiri Te Kanawa's preference for listening to Wagner's orchestral music over vocal music when she is alone at home reflects her admiration for the instrumental elements of music and her desire to delve into the complexities of orchestral compositions without the presence of vocal performances. This perspective offers insight into the multifaceted nature of musical appreciation and the ways in which personal experiences and professional backgrounds can influence an individual's relationship with different genres of music.