Original compositions using contemporary classical and jazz techniques accompanied by technical analysis Vol. I

Wijers, Dennis (2011) Original compositions using contemporary classical and jazz techniques accompanied by technical analysis Vol. I. Masters thesis, Waterford Institute of Technology.

[thumbnail of MA Thesis Vol 1 - Dennis Wijers2011.pdf]
Preview
PDF
MA Thesis Vol 1 - Dennis Wijers2011.pdf

Download (4MB) | Preview

Abstract

This portfolio of compositions consists of six major works and is accompanied by a technical analysis of each. Nature, the sky, astronomy, clouds and many fields of science have always fascinated me and four of the works presented here are heavily influenced by this fascination. The two remaining works are inspired by my interest in computing, computer programming and the possibilities opened up by the use of computers in composition. The first work, title Jupiter Moons Suite is a five-movement work for solo piano that is composed using the four permutations of a twelve-tone row. The first four movements each describe one of the four Galilean moons of Jupiter, while the final movement describes the surface of Jupiter itself. Aurora Borealis, the second work submitted, is for an eight-voice female choir. It is a setting of a passage of prose about the northern lights that uses synthsesia to relate sounds to colours. If-Then is a work for improvising ensemble that looks at the possibility of allowing the performers to determine large-scale compositional elements based on chance events that happen during the performance. It is a jazz-inspired suite that has many improvised passages. Cumulus is a string quartet in one movement. It is influenced by my interest in the clouds. It uses melodic movement along a symmetrical axis and has asymmetric rhythmic ostinatos. The fifth work is Elements, a piece for chamber ensemble and triggered sounds. It uses spectral analysis to blend live and pre-recorded sounds. The final work Zenith is for 16 voices and orchestra. Like Cumulus, it is strongly influenced by the changing of clouds in the sky.

Item Type: Thesis (Masters)
Uncontrolled Keywords: Compositions, music
Departments or Groups: *NONE OF THESE*
Divisions: School of Humanities > Department of Creative and Performing arts
Depositing User: Derek Langford
Date Deposited: 19 Feb 2013 14:48
Last Modified: 22 Aug 2016 10:26
URI: https://repository.wit.ie/id/eprint/2172

Actions (login required)

View Item View Item