Terrible Freedom: The Life and Work of Lucia Dlugoszewski

Lucia Dlugoszewski was an American composer, poet, writer, choreographer, and inventor who studied with John Cage and Edgard Varèse. She expanded sonic resources, invented instruments, focused on timbre and texture, collaborated with artists across disciplines, and incorporated spiritual, psychological, and philosophical influences into her work. Her compositional output, writings on aesthetics, creative relationships, and graphic poetry deserve examination on their own terms in the history of American experimental music.

Format: Hardback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2022
Publisher: University of California Press

From her early years in Detroit to her flourishing career in New York City, American composer Lucia Dlugoszewski (1925-2000) led a life of unwavering creativity, excelling as a poet, writer, composer for dance, theater, and film, and eventually venturing into choreography. Defying conventional paths, Dlugoszewski forged her own distinctive style after briefly studying under the guidance of John Cage and Edgard Varèse. She fearlessly addressed the musical challenges of her era, expanding the sonic palette, inventing instruments, bringing new attention to timbre and texture, collaborating with artists from diverse disciplines, and infusing her work with spiritual, psychological, and philosophical influences. While Dlugoszewski is today primarily remembered for her role as the musical director for the Erick Hawkins Dance Company, her extensive compositional output, insightful writings on aesthetics, creative relationships, and graphic poetry warrant a thorough examination on their own merits within the rich tapestry of American experimental music.

Early Life and Education:
Lucia Dlugoszewski was born on March 14, 1925, in Detroit, Michigan. Her early years were marked by a nurturing environment that fostered her artistic inclinations. Growing up in a family of musicians, she was exposed to a diverse range of music, from classical to jazz, which would later influence her compositional style. Dlugoszewski attended Wayne State University, where she studied music theory and composition under the guidance of renowned composers such as John Cage and Edgard Varèse.

Musical Journey:
After completing her studies at Wayne State University, Dlugoszewski embarked on a musical journey that took her across the United States and Europe. She performed as a pianist and composer in various venues, including Carnegie Hall in New York City and the Salle Pleyel in Paris. Her compositions, which encompassed a wide range of styles, including experimental, chamber music, and dance, received critical acclaim and garnered her recognition as a talented composer.

Collaborative Spirit:
One of the defining characteristics of Dlugoszewski's artistic approach was her collaborative spirit. She believed that music could transcend boundaries and collaborate with other art forms to create a more holistic and meaningful experience. Throughout her career, she worked closely with artists from various disciplines, including dancers, visual artists, and theater performers. This collaboration led to the creation of groundbreaking works that blurred the lines between music, dance, and visual art.

Innovative Techniques:
Dlugoszewski was known for her innovative techniques in composition. She was particularly interested in exploring the relationship between sound and space, and she often incorporated unconventional instruments and sound sources into her work. For example, she invented the "timbre organ," a device that allowed her to manipulate the timbre and texture of sound using a series of metal pipes. This invention opened up new possibilities for composers and allowed them to create unique and immersive musical experiences.

Spiritual and Philosophical Influences:
Dlugoszewski's work was deeply influenced by her spiritual and philosophical beliefs. She was drawn to the idea of transcendence and the exploration of the human condition. This influence can be seen in her compositions, which often incorporate elements of spirituality, meditation, and introspection. Her music sought to evoke a sense of wonder and awe, and to encourage listeners to reflect on the deeper meaning of life.

Legacy:
Despite facing challenges and setbacks throughout her career, Dlugoszewski's legacy as a composer and artist continues to thrive. She is remembered today as a trailblazer who pushed the boundaries of musical expression and collaborated with artists from diverse fields. Her compositions, which are housed in prestigious collections such as the Smithsonian Institution and the Library of Congress, continue to inspire and influence new generations of musicians and artists.

Conclusion:
Lucia Dlugoszewski's life was a testament to the power of creativity and the limitless possibilities that exist within the realm of music. Her unwavering commitment to her art, her innovative techniques, and her spiritual and philosophical influences have left an indelible mark on the history of American experimental music. As we continue to explore the rich tapestry of musical expression, we must remember the contributions of artists like Dlugoszewski and recognize the importance of nurturing and supporting the creative spirit in all of us.

Weight: 499g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520386655