Meaning: Steve Lacy, a renowned musician, made this statement reflecting on his early experiences with playing music in 1955. In this quote, Lacy expresses the idea that during that time, the audience for the kind of music he was engaged in was limited and composed of a select group of people who were knowledgeable about it. The term "esoteric" here refers to something that is understood or appreciated by only a small number of people with specialized knowledge or interest.

Lacy's statement captures the historical context of the mid-20th century when certain genres of music, particularly avant-garde and experimental forms, were not widely recognized or appreciated by mainstream audiences. The 1950s marked a period of significant cultural and musical shifts, with the emergence of various experimental and avant-garde movements in the arts, including music.

At the time Lacy began his musical journey, the landscape of popular music was dominated by more traditional and commercially successful genres such as rock and roll, jazz, and pop music. In contrast, the avant-garde and experimental music scene, which Lacy was part of, was considered unconventional and often inaccessible to the general public.

Lacy's reference to the limited awareness of the music he played in 1955 underscores the niche and specialized nature of avant-garde music during that era. It indicates that the audience for such music was small and comprised individuals who possessed a deep understanding and appreciation for the avant-garde genre.

The term "esoteric" used by Lacy conveys the sense of exclusivity and depth associated with the type of music he was involved in. It suggests that the music was not meant for mass consumption or commercial success but rather catered to a discerning and knowledgeable audience with a penchant for avant-garde and experimental sounds.

Furthermore, Lacy's observation sheds light on the challenges faced by musicians and artists operating in the avant-garde space during the 1950s. These challenges included a lack of mainstream recognition, limited opportunities for widespread dissemination of their work, and the need to navigate a cultural landscape that often favored more conventional and commercially viable forms of music.

Despite the limited audience and esoteric nature of the music scene in 1955, Lacy's statement also hints at the profound impact and influence that avant-garde music would later have on the broader cultural and musical landscape. Over time, the avant-garde movement would gain momentum, attracting a growing audience and influencing the evolution of music across various genres.

In conclusion, Steve Lacy's quote offers a glimpse into the niche and specialized world of avant-garde music in 1955. It highlights the limited awareness and esoteric nature of the genre during that period, while also hinting at its future significance and influence. Lacy's words serve as a testament to the transformative power of avant-garde music and its enduring impact on the broader musical landscape.