I worked on scores. I went to the musical library in Berlin which is very famous. I discovered that we had scores of Beethoven, printed scores of Beethoven, that are full of mistakes. Not the wrong or false notes, but the wrong dynamic, understandable things.

The quote by Kurt Masur reflects his experience working with musical scores, particularly those of Beethoven, at a renowned musical library in Berlin. Masur highlights the discovery that some of these printed scores, though widely regarded as authoritative, contain errors—not in the notes themselves but in the dynamics, which are the expressive elements of music such as volume and intensity. These mistakes, while subtle, affect the interpretation and performance of the music.

The origin of this quote comes from Masur’s deep involvement as a conductor and musician, where precision in the details of a score is crucial. His observation reveals that even the most famous and respected musical documents can have imperfections, reminding us of the challenges in preserving and interpreting historical works. This discovery underscores the ongoing need for careful study and revision in classical music performance.

Masur’s distinction between wrong notes and wrong dynamics points to the complexity of musical expression. While the notes define the melody and harmony, the dynamics bring the music to life, conveying emotion and character. Mistakes in dynamics can alter the intended feel of a piece, making this discovery particularly significant for musicians seeking authenticity.

In summary, the quote emphasizes the importance of thorough research and attention to detail in classical music. Masur’s experience at the famous Berlin musical library serves as a reminder that even celebrated works like Beethoven’s require careful interpretation to honor the composer’s true intentions.