Edgard Varèse was a classical composer of few pieces but high ambition. Born in France in 1883, he had a turbulent relationship with the musical establishment. In truth, Varèse did not fashion himself a composer but a worker in frequencies, rhythms, and intensities; and as such, he drew inspiration from many sources. His few completed works utilised electronic instruments such as the theremin and ondes Martenot to introduce new sounds and a novel approach to composition. In addition, Varèse established the International Composers’ Guild alongside Carlos Salzedo.
The music of Edgard Varèse may be challenging but his influence is indelible, and can be seen in the works of Karlheinz Stockhausen, Olivier Messiaen, John Cage, and Frank Zappa. We hope you enjoy.
www.technicallyclassical.com
Further Listening:
Ameriques
Hyperprism
Ionization
Deserts
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ch0Zytt58NQ&playnext=1&list=PL4E1D8987E1664EF5
