Meaning: This quote by Walter Legge, a prominent British classical music producer and businessman, succinctly captures the sentiment that artistic endeavors are best left to the individual rather than being subject to the decisions of a committee. In the context of the arts, "committees" can refer to any group of individuals tasked with making collective decisions about creative projects, whether it be a board of directors, a panel of judges, or a committee of stakeholders.

Walter Legge's career in the music industry provides valuable insight into the rationale behind his assertion. As a producer and executive at various record labels, including EMI and Deutsche Grammophon, Legge worked closely with some of the most renowned classical musicians of the 20th century, including conductors Herbert von Karajan and Wilhelm Furtwängler, as well as singers such as Elisabeth Schwarzkopf and Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau. Through his experiences, Legge witnessed firsthand the challenges and complexities that arise when artistic decisions are subjected to the scrutiny and influence of committees.

In the realm of classical music, the role of committees in decision-making processes can be particularly contentious. Artistic expression, interpretation, and creative vision are deeply personal and subjective aspects of music-making, and the imposition of committee decisions can potentially compromise the integrity and authenticity of a musical performance or recording. Furthermore, the inherent diversity of opinions within a committee can lead to compromises and dilution of artistic vision, resulting in a product that lacks the clarity and conviction of a singular artistic vision.

Legge's assertion also speaks to the broader implications of committee decision-making in the arts. Creative processes often require boldness, risk-taking, and innovation, qualities that can be stifled within the framework of committee-driven decision-making. The individual artist, whether a composer, performer, or visual artist, often thrives in an environment that encourages autonomy, self-expression, and the freedom to pursue their artistic vision without the constraints of group consensus.

Moreover, the quote can be interpreted as a reflection of the hierarchical nature of artistic leadership. Legge's emphasis on the futility of committees in the arts underscores the importance of individual leadership and vision in driving creative projects forward. In the context of music production, the role of a visionary producer or conductor is pivotal in shaping the artistic direction of a recording or performance, and the imposition of committee decisions can undermine the authority and impact of such leadership.

It is important to acknowledge that while Legge's quote emphasizes the limitations of committees in the arts, collaborative decision-making processes can also yield positive outcomes in certain contexts. For instance, artistic collaborations between musicians, choreographers, and visual artists often rely on mutual input and consensus to create cohesive and innovative works of art. However, the distinction lies in the nature of the collaboration; when it comes to the core artistic expression and vision, the individual artist's autonomy is often paramount.

In conclusion, Walter Legge's quote serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the intersection of artistic creativity and collective decision-making. His advocacy for the autonomy of the individual artist and the limitations of committees in the arts resonates with the challenges and complexities inherent in balancing creative freedom with collaborative input. Ultimately, the quote encourages a deeper consideration of the dynamics of artistic decision-making and the preservation of individual vision and creativity in the face of collective scrutiny.