Intonarumori

Definition

Intonarumori, or 'noise intoners', were innovative sound-producing machines developed by Italian Futurist artist Luigi Russolo in the early 20th century. These devices were designed to create a variety of noises that captured the chaotic sounds of modern life, aligning perfectly with the Futurist ideology that celebrated speed, technology, and the energy of urban environments. Intonarumori represented a radical departure from traditional musical instruments, emphasizing noise over melody and reflecting the Futurists' desire to break from the past and embrace a new sonic landscape.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Russolo created over a dozen different types of intonarumori, each producing distinct sounds that ranged from explosions to sirens, illustrating the diverse noise landscape of contemporary life.
2. The concept of intonarumori was introduced in Russolo's 1913 manifesto 'The Art of Noises', where he argued that noise should be accepted as a legitimate element of music.
3. The machines were often used in live performances, where they were played alongside traditional instruments, challenging the audience's perception of what constituted music.
4. Intonarumori played a crucial role in the evolution of experimental music and laid the groundwork for later avant-garde movements that embraced electronic sounds.
5. The decline of intonarumori's popularity was partly due to the rise of recorded music and technological advancements that offered new ways to explore sound.

Review Questions

• How did the intonarumori reflect the key principles of Futurism as articulated by Marinetti?
  • Intonarumori embodied key Futurist principles by emphasizing speed, technology, and the energetic chaos of modern urban life. Marinetti's Futurist Manifesto advocated for a break from traditional forms of art and a celebration of contemporary experiences. The noise generated by these machines captured the essence of industrialization and the din of city life, mirroring Marinetti’s call to embrace the vibrancy of the new century.
• In what ways did Luigi Russolo’s creation of intonarumori challenge traditional notions of music?
  • Russolo’s intonarumori challenged traditional music by prioritizing noise over melody, thus redefining what could be considered music. This shift urged audiences to reconsider their preconceived notions about sound and musical composition. By integrating mechanical noises into performances, Russolo opened up new avenues for musical exploration and expression that deviated significantly from classical conventions.
• Evaluate the impact of intonarumori on subsequent developments in music and sound art, particularly within the avant-garde movements.
  • The introduction of intonarumori had a profound impact on the evolution of music and sound art, paving the way for later avant-garde movements that embraced experimental soundscapes. By validating noise as a legitimate form of expression, Russolo's innovations influenced composers such as John Cage and developments in electronic music. This legacy continued through various artistic practices that sought to challenge auditory norms, encouraging a broad spectrum of creativity centered around sound experimentation.

Related terms

Futurism:

An artistic and social movement that originated in Italy in the early 20th century, characterized by its emphasis on modernity, technology, and a dynamic view of life.

Russolo: Luigi Russolo was an Italian composer and artist, known for his role in the Futurist movement and for creating the intonarumori as part of his vision for a new musical language.

Manifesto of Futurist Music: A manifesto written by Russolo in 1913 that outlined the principles of Futurist music, advocating for the incorporation of noise and mechanized sound into musical composition.