MATRIXSYNTH: THE MUSIC OF ChAnGEs - Event Celebrating John Cage

"Our Variation VII is a program focusing on Cage's most pioneering experimental, electronic, and noise music. Starting with early works utilizing 'non-musical' objects to generate sound [ Living Room Music (1940) and Radio Music (1956) ], we move to Cage's music for amplified objects from the early 60's. These works, epitomized by Cartridge Music (1960), feature graphic scores written on transparencies arranged by performers to realize various "events" amplified with contact microphones and phonograph cartridges. Although Cage was famously opposed to improvisation, these works require musicians who can make musical decisions based on real-time listening -- a skill honed by all the sfSound players!

Balancing out the program are two acoustic works: Music For ________ (1984-87) for chamber ensemble and a new work for improvisers by sfSound's Christopher Burns.

PROGRAM

Living Room Music (1940)

household objects and voice

Radio Music (1956)

one to eight radios

Cartridge Music (1960)

phonographic pick-ups, small objects, furniture, contact microphones, and amplification

Music for Amplified Toy Pianos (1960)

any number of toy pianos

0'00" (4'33" No.2) (1962)

a disciplined action with maximum amplification

Inlets (Improvisation II) (1977)