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About this quote

What does it mean?
The general public only understands and appreciates simple, memorable tunes in music.
In plain terms
The public really only understands simple tunes.
What can you take from it?
Audiences often prefer simple melodies over complex compositions.

Where it applies

  • concert
  • broadcast
  • marketing

Putting it to work

  • programming concerts
  • marketing music
  • understanding audiences

Questions to consider

  • What does the public prefer in art?
  • Should art cater to popularity?

Another view

This oversimplifies the public's ability to appreciate complex works.

More from Thomas Beecham

  1. I found it as alluring as a wayward woman and determined to tame it.

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  2. If I cannot sing a work, I cannot conduct it.

    Permalink to quote #7
  3. A musicologist is a man who can read music but can't hear it.

    Permalink to quote #4

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