Meaning: Derek Bailey was an influential English avant-garde guitarist and leading figure in the free improvisation movement. His quote reflects his evolving approach to music and the exploration of new ways of creating and performing. In this quote, Bailey discusses his interest in collaborating with musicians who have a specific approach to improvisation, rather than solely engaging in free improvisation.

Bailey's career was defined by his groundbreaking work in free improvisation, a style of music that emphasizes spontaneous creation and interaction between musicians without predetermined melodies or structures. However, as he matured as an artist, he sought to expand his musical horizons by engaging with individuals who brought their own unique perspectives and methodologies to the improvisational process.

One interpretation of Bailey's quote is that he was drawn to the idea of working with improvisers who had developed their own distinct techniques and approaches to the art form. By doing so, he may have been seeking to push the boundaries of his own creativity and explore new musical territories. This approach allowed him to break away from the conventions of free improvisation and delve into uncharted sonic landscapes, enriching his artistic expression.

It's worth noting that Bailey's desire to collaborate with musicians who had a "particular way of working" speaks to his openness to diverse musical influences and his willingness to embrace unconventional methods of expression. By engaging with individuals who brought their own unique perspectives and methodologies to the improvisational process, Bailey likely aimed to broaden his musical vocabulary and challenge himself to adapt to different musical contexts.

This quote also sheds light on Bailey's willingness to evolve as an artist and explore new artistic frontiers. While free improvisation remained a core aspect of his musical identity, his willingness to step outside of its boundaries and engage with other improvisational approaches demonstrates a desire for growth and experimentation.

In summary, Derek Bailey's quote reflects his ongoing artistic evolution and his willingness to explore new ways of creating and performing music. By seeking out collaborations with musicians who brought their own distinct improvisational approaches to the table, Bailey demonstrated a commitment to pushing the boundaries of his creativity and embracing the richness of diverse musical influences. This quote serves as a testament to Bailey's adventurous spirit and his relentless pursuit of artistic innovation.