30th Annual Student Research Conference
The Development of Extended Techniques in Western Art Music
Nicholas L. Gragg
Dr. Jay Bulen, Faculty Mentor
In the Western art music tradition, extended technique is defined as an unconventional, unorthodox, or non-traditional method of singing or playing musical instruments in order to obtain unusual sounds. These techniques affect pitch, intensity, duration, and timbre, but are especially useful in producing different timbres. Extended techniques have the potential to add more variety and interest to music. Though they have seen more use over the past hundred years, they are still often seen as daunting and avant-garde. This composition intends to showcase many accessible extended techniques and their applications on several common instruments. Each movement will highlight different effects that can be achieved with various techniques. The 1st movement will focus on microtonality, the 2nd on rhythm, and the 3rd on timbre.
Keywords: Music, Extended Techniques, Composition, Timbre, Microtonality
Topic(s):Music
Presentation Type: Performance Art
Session: 1-5
Location: OP 1393 - OP Performance Hall
Time: 4:30