Serialism: A compositional technique using a series of values to manipulate different musical elements. It is often associated with twelve-tone music, where a set sequence of pitches is used throughout a piece.
Context and Significance
Serialism plays a pivotal role in 20th-century music, providing composers with a systematic method to explore atonal music. Employed in various genres, it is particularly prevalent in orchestral and chamber music compositions. Serialism extends beyond pitch organization to include rhythm, dynamics, and timbre, offering a comprehensive framework for musical innovation. This technique challenges conventional tonality, allowing for unprecedented creative expression and complexity in musical works.
Historical Background
The advent of serialism can be traced back to the early 20th century, largely credited to Austrian composer Arnold Schoenberg. He developed the twelve-tone technique as a means to transcend traditional tonal constraints, marking a significant shift in Western music. Serialism evolved through the contributions of Schoenberg’s students, including Anton Webern and Alban Berg, who expanded its application. This method became a cornerstone of modern classical music, influencing numerous composers worldwide.
Examples
Serialism is exemplified in works like Schoenberg’s “Suite for Piano, Op. 25,” where the twelve-tone technique is rigorously applied. Anton Webern’s “Symphonie, Op. 21” showcases serialism’s potential to create intricate textures and structures. Pierre Boulez, a notable post-war composer, embraced serialism in “Structures I,” highlighting its versatility and adaptability across different musical forms. These pieces illustrate the transformative impact of serialism on contemporary music composition.
Related Terms
– Twelve-tone technique: A method of serialism focusing on a sequence of twelve pitches.
– Atonality: Music that lacks a tonal center or key.
– Minimalism: A style using limited musical materials, often contrasting with serialism.
– Set theory: A mathematical approach to analyzing and composing atonal music.