New Century - New Voices: Composition Today

We will consider how new technologies and the proliferation of notation systems has enabled more people to engage in the practice of music composition. We will discuss the dynamics of group improvisation, improvisation as brainstorming, and the change in temporal perception due to improvisational practice. We will read texts such as Daniel J, Levitin’s This Is Your Brain on Music, John Cage’s Silence, and Pauline Oliveros’ Deep Listening. Students will scheme and write their own compositions for instrumentation to be determined later. The class will culminate in a recital. Open to all students, regardless of musical background.