Prepared piano

Definition

A prepared piano is a conventional piano that has been altered by placing various objects on or between the strings, creating new, often percussive sounds. This innovative technique was notably popularized by John Cage, who used it to explore the sonic possibilities of the piano, merging traditional playing with experimental sound art.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The prepared piano was developed by John Cage in the late 1940s as a means to create a unique sound palette and extend the capabilities of the traditional piano.
2. Cage's piece 'Sonatas and Interludes' is one of the most famous works for prepared piano, showcasing a wide range of tonal and percussive effects.
3. Objects used for preparation can include rubber, screws, bolts, and paper, each altering the sound in specific ways depending on their placement.
4. The concept of the prepared piano reflects the larger movement toward experimental music during the mid-20th century, challenging conventional notions of harmony and rhythm.
5. Prepared pianos are often used in collaborative performances with other art forms, such as dance and visual art, emphasizing the interdisciplinary nature of contemporary experimental work.

Review Questions

• How did John Cage's use of prepared piano challenge traditional notions of musical composition?
  • John Cage's approach to prepared piano fundamentally altered the perception of what music could be by introducing unconventional sounds and textures. His techniques moved away from traditional melodies and harmonies towards a focus on timbre and sound exploration. This shift encouraged composers and musicians to experiment with new forms of expression, leading to a broader acceptance of avant-garde techniques in music composition.
• Discuss the relationship between prepared piano and the Fluxus movement in terms of artistic expression.
  • The prepared piano aligns closely with the Fluxus movement's emphasis on process over product by inviting performers to engage with sound in innovative ways. Fluxus artists sought to break down barriers between art forms and everyday life, much like how Cage used prepared pianos to transform a standard instrument into a source of unexpected sounds. This integration reflects a shared philosophy of experimentation and interaction within artistic practices.
• Evaluate how the concept of prepared piano has influenced modern experimental music and its practice today.
  • The concept of prepared piano has left a lasting legacy in modern experimental music by expanding the range of sonic possibilities for composers and performers. Many contemporary musicians adopt similar techniques or utilize non-traditional instruments to explore sound in creative ways. The prepared piano serves as a reminder that musical boundaries can always be pushed further, encouraging ongoing innovation in sound art and interdisciplinary collaboration across genres.

Related terms

John Cage:

An American composer and music theorist known for his innovative use of chance and prepared piano, greatly influencing modern and experimental music.

Fluxus: An international network of artists and composers in the 1960s who emphasized the artistic process over the final product, often blending art with everyday life.

Experimental music: A broad genre of music that pushes the boundaries of traditional musical forms, often incorporating unconventional sounds, instruments, and performance practices.