Intonarumori

Definition

Intonarumori, or 'noise intoners', are experimental musical instruments invented by Italian Futurist artist Luigi Russolo in the early 20th century. These instruments were designed to create a wide variety of sounds and noises that departed from traditional musical tones, reflecting the Futurist belief in the power of modern technology and the aesthetics of noise. The intonarumori represented a radical shift in the understanding of music, moving away from melody and harmony towards the exploration of sound as a fundamental element of artistic expression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Luigi Russolo built several intonarumori, each designed to produce different types of noise, such as rumbling, hissing, and screeching, reflecting a range of sound experiences.
2. The concept of intonarumori was introduced in Russolo's manifesto, which argued that modern life was filled with new sounds that should be embraced and incorporated into music.
3. Intonarumori were often used in performances that combined visual art with sound, showcasing the Futurist idea of total art, where different art forms come together.
4. The instruments were constructed from materials like wood and metal, featuring mechanical devices that generated their unique sounds when operated by musicians.
5. Russolo's work with intonarumori laid the groundwork for later developments in experimental music and sound art, influencing artists and musicians across various genres.

Review Questions

• How did Luigi Russolo's intonarumori challenge traditional notions of music?
  • Luigi Russolo's intonarumori challenged traditional notions of music by focusing on noise instead of melody and harmony. The instruments were specifically designed to create a range of non-musical sounds, reflecting the chaotic nature of modern life. This departure from conventional music invited listeners to reconsider their perceptions of what constitutes music and opened up new avenues for artistic expression.
• Discuss the significance of Russolo's manifesto 'The Art of Noises' in relation to the development of intonarumori and Futurism.
  • Russolo's manifesto 'The Art of Noises' was significant because it provided a theoretical framework for the creation and performance of intonarumori. The manifesto argued that noise was an essential part of contemporary life and that it should be integrated into artistic practices. By promoting this idea within the Futurist movement, Russolo helped to elevate noise as an important medium in art, leading to a redefinition of musical boundaries.
• Evaluate the impact that intonarumori had on later musical movements and how they paved the way for contemporary sound art.
  • Intonarumori had a profound impact on later musical movements by pushing the boundaries of what music could be. They influenced genres such as noise music, avant-garde, and electronic music by introducing concepts that prioritize sound over traditional musical elements. This innovative approach encouraged future artists to experiment with soundscapes and incorporate everyday noises into their work, ultimately paving the way for contemporary sound art practices that continue to explore the relationship between noise and artistic expression.

Related terms

Futurism:

An artistic and social movement that emerged in early 20th century Italy, promoting technology, modernity, and a break from the past through dynamic art and aesthetics.

Noise Music: A genre of music that emphasizes the use of unconventional sounds and noise as a primary component, challenging traditional musical structures and aesthetics.

Russolo's Manifesto: A foundational text written by Luigi Russolo in 1913 titled 'The Art of Noises', which advocates for the inclusion of noise in music and outlines the philosophy behind intonarumori.