Noise music

Definition

Noise music is a genre that embraces unconventional sounds, often using dissonance, non-melodic elements, and extreme volume levels to create an auditory experience that challenges traditional musical aesthetics. It focuses on the texture and physical properties of sound rather than harmonic structure or melody, which makes it a vital part of experimental music. This genre not only questions the boundaries of what music can be but also serves as a commentary on societal norms and artistic expression, connecting to broader movements that reject mainstream ideals.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Noise music emerged in the early 20th century, with notable influences from Futurism and Dadaism, which celebrated chaos and the rejection of traditional aesthetics.
2. Prominent figures in noise music include artists like Merzbow and Wolf Eyes, who often use electronic equipment to manipulate sound and create harsh sonic environments.
3. The genre is characterized by its use of everyday sounds, environmental noise, and unconventional instruments, creating a stark contrast to traditional musical forms.
4. Noise music can serve as a form of protest or social commentary, reflecting dissatisfaction with societal structures and questioning cultural norms.
5. Live performances of noise music often emphasize spontaneity and improvisation, creating unique experiences that differ from one event to another.

Review Questions

• How does noise music reflect the principles of experimental music?
  • Noise music exemplifies experimental music by challenging traditional notions of melody and harmony, emphasizing sound texture and physicality instead. By utilizing unconventional sounds and dissonance, it expands the definition of what can be considered music. This genre invites listeners to engage with sound in new ways, reflecting the core characteristics of experimentation and innovation found throughout experimental music.
• In what ways did the Dada movement influence the development of noise music?
  • The Dada movement's embrace of absurdity and anti-art sentiments laid the groundwork for noise music's rejection of traditional artistic standards. Dada artists often incorporated noise into their performances and artworks to challenge societal norms and provoke thought. This legacy continues in noise music, where chaotic soundscapes serve as a form of artistic expression that defies conventional expectations and critiques mainstream culture.
• Evaluate the role of technology in shaping the sound and performance practices within noise music.
  • Technology plays a crucial role in noise music, as artists utilize electronic instruments, synthesizers, and computer software to manipulate sound in innovative ways. This reliance on technology allows for the creation of complex sonic textures and live improvisational performances that are unique each time. The integration of technology not only expands the palette of sounds available to composers but also reflects broader societal changes regarding how we perceive and interact with sound in our environment.

Related terms

Sound Art:

An interdisciplinary field that utilizes sound as a primary medium, often blurring the lines between visual art and music.

Dissonance: A combination of sounds that clash or are perceived as unstable, often used in noise music to evoke tension and challenge conventional harmony.

Avant-Garde: Innovative or experimental works in the arts, particularly those that push boundaries and challenge accepted norms, closely associated with noise music.