An Ending (Ascent) – A Melodic Labyrinth Built on Drone Textures and Sonic Dissonance

blog 2025-01-05 0Browse 0

“An Ending (Ascent)” by Pauline Oliveros stands as a seminal work within the realm of experimental music, weaving together intricate drone textures with moments of jarring sonic dissonance to create an immersive and thought-provoking listening experience. This piece exemplifies Oliveros’ pioneering approach to “deep listening,” a concept that emphasizes mindful engagement with sound and its surrounding environment.

Pauline Oliveros (1932-2016) was a composer, performer, and teacher who played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of 20th and 21st-century experimental music. Born in Houston, Texas, she began her musical journey at a young age, studying accordion and piano before venturing into the world of electronic music.

Oliveros’ work was deeply rooted in her philosophical approach to sound, which she termed “deep listening.” This philosophy encouraged listeners to actively engage with their auditory environment, not simply passively hearing sounds but truly experiencing them on a physical, emotional, and intellectual level. Her compositions often blurred the lines between traditional musical structures and free improvisation, inviting performers and listeners alike to explore the limitless possibilities of sound.

“An Ending (Ascent)” exemplifies Oliveros’ deep listening philosophy through its carefully constructed sonic architecture. The piece unfolds gradually, beginning with sustained drone tones that create a sense of vastness and contemplative stillness. As the drones evolve, subtle shifts in timbre and pitch introduce elements of dissonance and tension, prompting the listener to actively participate in resolving these sonic ambiguities.

Deconstructing the Sonic Landscape:

The following table provides a deeper insight into the musical elements at play in “An Ending (Ascent)”:

Element	Description
Drones	Sustained pitches that form the foundational texture of the piece, evoking a sense of immensity and stillness.
Timbre	The sonic color or quality of the sound, which evolves throughout the piece through subtle manipulations of tone and pitch.
Dissonance	Intervals and chords that create tension and instability, prompting listeners to actively resolve the sonic ambiguities.
Texture	The interplay of different sonic elements, creating a rich and complex tapestry of sound.

The Impact of “An Ending (Ascent)”:

“An Ending (As Ascent)” has had a lasting impact on the world of experimental music. Its innovative use of drones, dissonance, and deep listening principles has inspired countless composers and performers to explore new sonic territories. The piece continues to be performed and studied today, serving as a testament to Oliveros’ groundbreaking vision and her enduring legacy in the field of experimental music.

Beyond the Music:

Oliveros’s influence extended beyond her compositions. She founded the Center for Contemporary Music at Mills College in Oakland, California, creating a fertile ground for experimentation and innovation in musical pedagogy. Her teachings emphasized collaboration, improvisation, and the exploration of sound beyond traditional boundaries.

As a performer, Oliveros often incorporated unconventional instruments and techniques into her work. She used amplified everyday objects, electronic circuits, and vocalizations to create unique and evocative soundscapes. Her performances were often participatory experiences, inviting audiences to join in on the sonic explorations.

Listening to “An Ending (Ascent)” is not simply a passive experience; it’s an invitation to delve into the depths of sound, to actively engage with the ever-shifting textures and tonal ambiguities. It’s a journey into the heart of experimental music, guided by the visionary hand of Pauline Oliveros.