Meaning: This quote by Walter Legge, a renowned businessman and classical music producer, reflects his personal opinion on singing in English and his feelings towards the character of Cressida. Walter Legge was known for his contributions to the classical music industry, particularly as the founder of the Philharmonia Orchestra and for his work with the recording label EMI. His views on the language of singing and the character of Cressida shed light on his artistic preferences and the standards he held for musical performances.

In the quote, Walter Legge expresses his dislike for singing in English. This sentiment may stem from the historical dominance of Italian, German, and French in classical vocal repertoire. Many of the most famous operas and art songs are written in these languages, and they have traditionally been favored by singers and audiences alike. Legge's preference for other languages in vocal performance may also be influenced by the specific qualities and characteristics of these languages, as well as their historical associations with classical music.

It is worth noting that the English language has often been perceived as less suited to classical vocal music due to its phonetics and the challenges it poses for singers in terms of diction, vowel sounds, and pronunciation. Additionally, the specific linguistic and cultural associations of English may have influenced Legge's perspective. For example, the English language can carry different connotations and emotional resonances than other languages, which may not align with the aesthetic and expressive goals of classical vocal music.

Furthermore, Walter Legge mentions his dissatisfaction with the story and character of Cressida. This likely refers to the character of Cressida in classical literature and mythology, particularly in the context of opera and vocal music. Cressida is a figure from Greek mythology and appears in various literary and operatic works, most notably in William Shakespeare's play "Troilus and Cressida." In these works, Cressida is often portrayed as a complex and morally ambiguous character, which may have contributed to Legge's aversion.

It is possible that Walter Legge's distaste for the character of Cressida is rooted in his artistic and moral sensibilities. As a producer and advocate for classical music, he may have had specific criteria for the stories and characters depicted in vocal works, seeking narratives and figures that aligned with his own values and aesthetic preferences. Additionally, the portrayal of Cressida in various artistic interpretations may have varied, leading Legge to form a negative impression of the character based on specific performances or adaptations.

In conclusion, Walter Legge's quote offers insight into his personal views on singing in English and his feelings towards the character of Cressida. His perspective reflects the complexities of language and storytelling in the context of classical vocal music, shedding light on the preferences and standards held by influential figures in the industry. By considering the historical, linguistic, and artistic dimensions of Legge's statement, we can gain a deeper understanding of the nuanced factors that shape musical interpretation and performance.