The gestural performance which gave the theme such life and character was a very tangible gestalt composed of a synthesis of elements that I had heretofore considered as separable components. By this definition, not just any movement would qualify as gesture. Furthermore, one might be unconscious of a movement that could be interpreted by another as significant. For example, when I detect subtle movements indicating that another is bored with my conversation, that person's movements need not be conscious to take on a gestural significance. Yet not every movement made by a performer is interpreted in quite this way.
Some movements appear more significant than others.
In fact, those movements that highlight thematic gestures are somehow primary to our attending. That which is thematic in a work is earned by initial foregrounding and subsequent development. And yet gesture can distinguish accompanimental textures, or even cadential material, giving these an undeniable significance, as well. Whenever characterization is involved, we can speak of meaningful gestures. And the gestural motivation for that character can be heard - it need not be seen to be inferred.