interpretations

I just wanted to put the thought down before I lost it. Originally from a thread between Yang and Angus somewhere on Facebook, but the thread was killed so...

Music is a whole experience. For any one piece, the personal experience necessarily differs. Some derive enjoyment of a piece from considering context and background, some from analysis, others from ignoring all such pedantic thinking. Two may listen to Rachmaninov's interpretations of Chopin; one could balk at the pianist's technical imprecision; another may be taken in by his unfettered expression and sincerity. Ultimately, it is the appreciator's own choice how to experience it in order to derive their own greatest satisfaction and/or enlightenment. Art at the initial moment of experience is a purely self-centred act, and it should not matter where other opinions lie.