Composer

:

Morton Subotnick

Genre

:

Electronic/Computer

Style

:

Electronic Music

Compose Date

:

1969

Average_duration

:

30:23

Movement_count

:

2

Movement ....

'Touch for Synthesizer' is a groundbreaking composition by Morton Subotnick, an American composer and pioneer in electronic music. The piece was composed in 1969 and premiered the same year at the San Francisco Tape Music Center. 'Touch for Synthesizer' is a single-movement work that lasts approximately 20 minutes. It is performed on a Buchla 100 modular synthesizer, an instrument that Subotnick helped to develop. The piece is characterized by its use of live manipulation of sound, with Subotnick using the touch-sensitive surface of the Buchla synthesizer to create a dynamic and constantly evolving sonic landscape. The piece begins with a series of high-pitched, metallic sounds that gradually give way to a more complex and layered texture. Subotnick uses a variety of techniques to manipulate the sound, including filtering, modulation, and delay. The result is a constantly shifting soundscape that is both mesmerizing and disorienting. As the piece progresses, Subotnick introduces new elements into the mix, including rhythmic patterns and melodic fragments. These elements are woven into the texture of the piece, creating a sense of coherence and structure. However, the overall effect is still one of unpredictability and experimentation. 'Touch for Synthesizer' is a landmark work in the history of electronic music. It showcases Subotnick's innovative approach to composition and his mastery of the Buchla synthesizer. The piece has influenced countless electronic musicians and remains a testament to the power of experimentation and exploration in music.

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