Archive
IJMSTA - Vol. 4 - Issue 2 - July 2022
ISSN 2612-2146
Pages: 5
Investigating Variable Compositional Materials-Taking Cage's Solo for Piano (1957-58) as Example
Authors: Chia-Ling Peng
Categories: Journal
Abstract - This paper aims to research Cage's intentions, purposes, and notation materials of Solo for Piano (1957-58) through Max Weber's theory of rationality. With rationality, this paper intends to discuss the influence of Zen Buddhism, three stages of notation materials transformation and the formation of indeterminacy. This research takes two steps to analyse Solo for Piano; firstly, examining how Cage practised Zen Buddhism and how he applied chance and indeterminacy in his music; his practice, intention, and creative motivation will connect with value rationality. Secondly, decomposing notation materials to discover their transformation cross stages of composition, realisation, and appreciation. This section will connect with rationality, determinacy, and (dis)enchantment to discuss the different status of notation materials on different stages. After two-step analyses, the formation of indeterminacy will be clear.
Keywords: John Cage, Indeterminacy, Rationality, Max Weber
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