Semiotic Approach to Open Notations: Ambiguity as Opportunity

The use of open notations in music has evolved with advancements in playing techniques, technologies, and musical sound concepts. These notations invite performers to actively co-create the musical work, resulting in a vibrant community of practitioners. Tristan McKay explores ambiguity, authority, and identity in works with open notations through a semiotic approach, analyzing examples by Earle Brown, Will Redman, and Leah Asher.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The evolution of musical notation has been closely intertwined with advancements in playing techniques, technologies, and concepts of musical sound throughout the twentieth century. Composers have embraced a wide range of notations that reflect these developments, including those referred to as "open works." These compositions actively encourage performers to take on a radical and active role in co-creating the musical work. Scores featuring open notations have been a prominent feature of Western classical music since the mid-twentieth century, and they continue to attract a dedicated community of practitioners today.

In this Element, Tristan McKay delves into the intricate intersections of ambiguity, authority, and identity in works with open notations. He develops a semiotic approach to open notation analysis, applying it to in-depth examinations of openly notated works by composers such as Earle Brown, Will Redman, and Leah Asher. Through this analytical lens, McKay explores how open notations challenge traditional notions of musical interpretation and empower performers to shape the musical outcome in unique and meaningful ways.

One of the key characteristics of open notations is their deliberate ambiguity. Composers utilize intricate symbols, markings, and notation systems to convey a range of meanings and interpretations, leaving it up to the performer to unravel and interpret the music in their own way. This ambiguity fosters a sense of collaboration and interaction between the composer and performer, as they engage in a dynamic dialogue to bring the composition to life.

Furthermore, open notations often challenge traditional notions of musical authority. In traditional Western classical music, the score serves as the primary source of guidance for the performer. However, with open notations, the performer is given greater autonomy and freedom to interpret the music based on their own artistic vision and interpretation. This can lead to a more personalized and expressive performance, as the performer has the opportunity to infuse their unique style and personality into the music.

At the same time, open notations also raise questions about identity and representation. Composers with open notations often seek to challenge traditional musical conventions and break down barriers between different musical traditions and genres. They may incorporate elements of non-Western music, experimental techniques, or unconventional notation systems to create a unique and innovative musical language. This can lead to a broader appreciation of musical diversity and the potential for cross-cultural collaboration.

In conclusion, the evolution of musical notation has been shaped by a range of twentieth-century developments, including playing techniques, technologies, and concepts of musical sound. Composers have embraced open works, which encourage performers to take on a radical and active role in co-creating the musical work. These compositions feature deliberate ambiguity, challenge traditional notions of musical authority. authority, and raise questions about identity and representation. Through in-depth analyses of openly notated works by composers such as Earle Brown, Will Redman, and Leah Asher, McKay develops a semiotic approach to open notation analysis, shedding light on the complex interplay between ambiguity, authority, and identity in these musical compositions.

Weight: 136g
Dimension: 151 x 228 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108813327