“Nevertheless the passions, whether violent or not, should never be so expressed as to reach the point of causing disgust; and music, even in situations of the greatest horror, should never be painful to the ear but should flatter and charm it, and thereby always remain music.”
- January 27, 1756 – December 5, 1791
- Born in Salzburg (Austria)
- Composer
- Left behind many masterpieces such as “The Marriage of Figaro,” “Don Giovanni,” and “The Magic Flute”
Quote
“Nevertheless the passions, whether violent or not, should never be so expressed as to reach the point of causing disgust; and music, even in situations of the greatest horror, should never be painful to the ear but should flatter and charm it, and thereby always remain music.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mozart emphasizes that even when expressing intense emotions or dramatic themes—whether violent or not—music should never be so harsh or extreme that it becomes unpleasant or unbearable to listen to. Even in moments of great horror or tension, he argues that the essence of music should always be maintained, meaning it should continue to delight the listener and not cause them discomfort. This reflects Mozart’s belief in the power of music to convey deep emotions while still preserving its beauty and musical integrity. No matter how intense the subject matter, music should flatter and charm the ear, ensuring that it remains music and not simply a cacophony or noise.
Historically, this insight reveals Mozart’s skill as a composer, particularly in his ability to craft music that could express complex emotions without losing its musicality. Even in his more dramatic works, such as Don Giovanni or Requiem, he carefully balanced the emotional intensity with a sense of beauty and harmony, ensuring that the music remained pleasing to the ear. This principle was key to his success, as it allowed him to push the boundaries of musical expression while maintaining a sense of aesthetic appeal. It also reflects the broader cultural view of the time, where music was not just a tool for dramatic expression but also a refined art form that should maintain a balance of emotional power and elegance.
In modern times, Mozart’s sentiment can be applied to many forms of artistic expression, particularly in film scoring, theater, and classical music, where even the most intense or disturbing scenes are often paired with carefully chosen music that enhances the mood without overwhelming the audience. The idea that music should flatter and charm the ear can serve as a reminder that while art can explore difficult or dark themes, it should still respect the audience’s experience by maintaining a certain level of artistic beauty and craftsmanship. Whether in classical composition or modern media, the goal is to create emotional depth without crossing the line into discordance that could alienate the listener or viewer.
