Composers Forum is a daily web log that allows invited contemporary composers to share their thoughts and ideas on any topic that interests them--from the ethereal, like how new music gets created, music history, theory, performance, other composers, alive or dead, to the mundane, like getting works played and recorded and the joys of teaching. If you're a professional composer and would like to participate, send us an e-mail.
Record companies, artists and publicists are invited to submit CDs to be considered for review. Send to: Jerry Bowles, Editor, Sequenza 21, 340 W. 57th Street, 12B, New York, NY 10019
Do composers, or other creative artists, for that matter, have an obligation to "explain" their work? David Salvage raises that issue in his post about Harrison Birtwistle and his inability, or unwillingness, to help a listener understand his work. Lawrence Dillon's Job Description of a composer seems to imply--perhaps I'm reading this into it--that while being able to articulate what you are doing is a bonus music speaks for itself if the composer is skillful enough. Some contemporary composers--I'm thinking of Thomas Ades and Oliver Knussen in particular--rarely lecture or talk about their work with anyone outside a small fraternity of composers and musicians. This has earned them a reputation, with the press at least, for being "difficult" and elitist. What is the right balance and how do those of you who face this problem deal with it?
posted by Jerry Bowles
7:17 PM
