Composer

:

James Tenney

Genre

:

Electronic/Computer

Style

:

Electronic/Computer Music

Compose Date

:

1964

Average_duration

:

13:42

'Ergodos II' is a composition by American composer James Tenney. It was composed in 1969 and premiered the same year at the University of Illinois. The piece is divided into three movements, each exploring different aspects of sound and perception. The first movement, titled "Harmonic Relations," is based on the concept of just intonation. Tenney uses a series of harmonic intervals to create a slowly evolving texture that gradually builds in complexity. The movement is characterized by its use of sustained tones and subtle shifts in pitch and timbre. The second movement, "Noise Relations," is a stark contrast to the first. It features a series of abrupt, percussive sounds that are created by striking various objects. The sounds are arranged in a rhythmic pattern that gradually becomes more complex. The movement is characterized by its use of noise and its emphasis on rhythm. The final movement, "Mixed Relations," combines elements of the first two movements. It features a combination of sustained tones and percussive sounds, arranged in a complex, polyphonic texture. The movement is characterized by its use of both harmony and noise, and its exploration of the relationship between the two. Overall, 'Ergodos II' is a highly experimental work that pushes the boundaries of traditional musical forms. It explores the relationship between sound and perception, and challenges the listener to reconsider their preconceptions about what constitutes music.

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