The body must only respond to the stimuli of the imagination’s ear.
The depth of intent and clarity of expression solely depend on one’s ability to respond to the solitary stimulus that actually matters; the creation and manifestation of music from within, before any note is ever played.
Therefore developing the imagination’s ear through refining the skills of musicianship is the artist’s truest, urgent, and most necessary work. It is in this way that technique is coordinated and maintained, freeing aesthetic to imbue.
– JC Heisler