Fun Composer Fact – In 1928, George Gershwin asked Maurice Ravel if he could study with him.
(French Impressionism was all the rage…)
Ravel denied the offer and replied, “Why would you want to be a second-rate Ravel when you can be a first-rate Gershwin?”
Wise words.
Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but it will only take you so far.
(Be a first-rate you.)