This seminar takes a broad view of spectral music, and begins with works that remain a continuing source of inspiration for composers concerned with expanding the pitch and timbral resources of contemporary music. We will discuss the music of pre-spectral innovators before moving to those composers most strongly identified with spectralism as a “school," as well as the growing field of post-spectral music, peopled by composers with various focal interests (ecomusicology, space, timbral perception, etc.), with a guest lecture in week 2. Rather than dwell on the mathematical basis of spectral technique, the seminar emphasizes score study, in tandem with discussions of the historical and philosophical foundations of the movement. There will be 4 analytical assignments, and a final paper and presentation. Full syllabus available here.
Prospective topics: