Compare the Compositional Methods of Two Sound Artists:luigi Russolo
Compare the compositional methods of two sound artists:
Luigi Russolo
John Zorn
Luigi Russolo (1885-1947) was part of the Italian Futurist movement and known for 20th century most influential texts, The Art of Noises. Written in 1913 to a friend, the manifesto reflects radical alternative inputs to the classical musical tradition of Russolos time. The argument of how traditional orchestral instruments and compositions can no long construct the spirit of modern life, with its fast paced energy, speed and noise. I thought this chapter really captured the thinking methods behind sound in our world.
After reading in Audio Culture, “The Art of Noises: Futurist Manifesto” I could really see what Luigi was trying to convey about the change in sound. He starts off by first stating the scarcity of noises and sound being attributed to the gods. It was to be reserved by priests who used it to enrich their rites with mystery. He relates to the idea of sound being something in itself. In the beginning, Russolo states how musical art being obtained with purity and sweetness of sound. As time goes on he states how musical art brings together different sounds but still emphasizing the ear with harmonies. Now as Russolo clarifies in his day, that sound grows more complicated and seeks out combinations more dissonant and obtsurd to the ear. When this happened Russolo states it became the closest to becoming the “noise sound”. This evolutional, compositional method of music is comparable to the voice of machines of man. With this compositional method of music Russolo finalizes his manifesto by inviting talented and ambiscious musicians to observe all noises, to understand the different rhythms that compose them. I think this is such a great