
The sonic tapestry of “An Ending (Ascent)”, a landmark composition by American experimental composer Pauline Oliveros, weaves together ethereal drones with the raw textures of musique concrète, creating a truly immersive and transformative listening experience.
Pauline Oliveros (1932-2016) was a true visionary in the realm of experimental music, breaking boundaries and challenging conventional notions of sonic art. A pioneer in the development of “deep listening,” a practice that emphasizes heightened awareness and engagement with sound, she left an indelible mark on the musical landscape through her innovative compositions and teachings.
“An Ending (Ascent),” composed in 1969, is a prime example of Oliveros’s forward-thinking approach to music. This mesmerizing piece transcends traditional musical structures, instead opting for an organic flow that invites listeners into a contemplative and introspective space. The composition unfolds gradually, beginning with sustained drones created through electronic oscillators and amplified instruments like the cello and saxophone. These drones act as a sonic foundation, enveloping the listener in a wash of ethereal sound.
As “An Ending (Ascent)” progresses, Oliveros introduces elements of musique concrète – a technique that involves manipulating recorded sounds and environmental noises. Snippets of speech, industrial clangs, and nature’s whispers are seamlessly integrated into the drone-scape, adding layers of complexity and texture. These unexpected sonic intrusions create a sense of unease and disorientation, prompting the listener to question their preconceived notions of musical harmony and structure.
The result is a truly captivating soundscape that evokes a wide range of emotions – from tranquility and awe to bewilderment and intrigue. It’s music that demands active listening, encouraging the listener to engage with each sonic detail and uncover hidden layers of meaning.
Deep Listening: The Foundation of Oliveros’s Philosophy
At the heart of “An Ending (Ascent)” lies the concept of “deep listening,” a practice championed by Pauline Oliveros. She believed that music wasn’t simply something to be passively consumed but rather an experience to be fully immersed in, both intellectually and emotionally. Deep listening involves:
- Heightened awareness: Paying close attention to subtle sonic details, nuances, and textures
- Active engagement: Participating in the musical dialogue by responding to the sounds and allowing them to evoke personal emotions and interpretations
- Presence: Letting go of preconceived notions and judgments, embracing the present moment and the unfolding sonic journey
Oliveros believed that deep listening could foster a sense of connection and understanding between individuals and their environment. This philosophy extended beyond her own compositions and influenced her approach to teaching and collaboration. She actively encouraged musicians from diverse backgrounds to experiment with sound, embrace improvisation, and explore the expressive possibilities of music beyond traditional boundaries.
“An Ending (Ascent)”: A Journey through Sound
To fully appreciate the impact of “An Ending (Ascent),” it’s essential to experience the piece firsthand. Here are some key elements to pay attention to during your listening journey:
-
The evolution of drones: Notice how the drones shift and morph throughout the composition, sometimes becoming more prominent, other times fading into the background.
-
The integration of musique concrète: Identify the different types of sounds used – speech snippets, industrial noises, environmental recordings – and consider how they interact with the drones.
-
Your own emotional response: Allow yourself to be fully present in the sonic environment. What emotions does the music evoke? Does it transport you to a specific place or time?
“An Ending (Ascent)” is not for the faint of heart, nor is it a piece that will immediately reveal its secrets. It’s music that rewards repeated listening, each encounter unveiling new depths and complexities. But be warned: once you step into Oliveros’s sonic world, you may never want to leave.
Further Exploration:
Composer | Key Works |
---|---|
Pauline Oliveros | “Sonic Meditations,” “Variations on a Theme by Joseph Schillinger” |
Pierre Schaeffer | “Etude aux chemins de fer” (Railway Study), “Symphonie pour un homme seul” (Symphony for One Man) |
By immersing yourself in the soundscapes of Pauline Oliveros and other pioneers of experimental music, you can embark on a journey of sonic discovery that will expand your horizons and challenge your preconceptions about what music can be.