Déserts

Definition

Déserts are a musical form pioneered by composer Edgard Varèse, characterized by its unconventional use of sound and silence, which emphasizes the exploration of sonic landscapes rather than traditional melodic or harmonic structures. This concept aligns with Varèse's belief in the liberation of sound, encouraging composers to think beyond conventional music and embrace new ideas about what music can be.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Déserts was composed in 1950 and is one of Varèse's most important works, showcasing his innovative approach to music.
2. The piece integrates both live performance and recorded sounds, blurring the lines between different forms of musical expression.
3. Varèse viewed déserts as a way to explore the emotional impact of sound itself, moving away from traditional notions of melody and harmony.
4. The title 'déserts' reflects the idea of vast, empty spaces in music, allowing listeners to experience the silence as much as the sound.
5. Varèse's approach to déserts has influenced many contemporary composers who seek to challenge traditional forms and explore new sonic possibilities.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of déserts reflect Edgard Varèse's philosophy on music and sound?
  • Déserts embodies Edgard Varèse's philosophy that music should transcend traditional boundaries and embrace innovative sound exploration. By focusing on sound as a medium for emotional expression rather than adhering strictly to melody or harmony, Varèse challenges listeners to experience music in a more profound way. This work emphasizes the relationship between sound and silence, illustrating how both elements can create a compelling musical experience.
• Discuss how the elements of sound mass and spatialization are utilized in déserts to create a unique auditory experience.
  • In déserts, Varèse employs the techniques of sound mass and spatialization to craft a distinctive auditory experience that diverges from conventional music. Sound mass is used to group various sonic elements into cohesive textures, while spatialization enhances the listener's immersion by arranging sounds in a three-dimensional auditory space. This innovative approach invites listeners to engage with the piece on multiple levels, as they perceive both individual sounds and their interactions within the larger soundscape.
• Evaluate the significance of déserts in the context of modern music and its impact on future generations of composers.
  • Déserts holds significant importance in modern music as it marks a pivotal moment when composers began to experiment with sound beyond traditional structures. Its innovative integration of live performance and recorded sounds paved the way for future explorations in genres like electronic music and experimental compositions. The influence of déserts can be seen in contemporary works that prioritize sonic exploration, inviting new generations of composers to challenge norms and redefine what constitutes music, ultimately shaping the trajectory of 20th-century and 21st-century musical thought.

Related terms

Sound Mass: A technique used in modern music where a collection of sounds is treated as a cohesive unit, focusing on texture and density rather than individual notes.

Musique Concrète: A form of experimental music that utilizes recorded sounds from the environment, manipulating them to create new compositions.

Spatialization: The technique of arranging sound in space, often used in electronic music to create immersive auditory experiences.