Into the Twenty-First Century

What did audiences seek in music by 1970?

Music that offered transcendence and connection, fulfilling the traditional role of polyphonic compositions.

Who was R. Murray Schafer?

The leading Canadian composer in the last quarter of the 20th century, known for works based on extramusical inspirations.

What is 'environmental music' as defined by Schafer?

Music that moves outside the concert hall and involves audience participation.

What is the concept behind 'Music for Wilderness Lake'?

A performance at sunrise and sunset involving trombonists playing meditative melodies with animal sounds.

What is Jennifer Higdon known for?

Being a Neo-Romanticist composer who writes large, appealing works in the Romantic tradition.

What award did Higdon's Violin Concerto win?

The Pulitzer Prize in 2010.

What is the significance of 'Blue cathedral'?

A successful modern orchestra piece written in memory of Higdon's brother, performed over 600 times.

What instruments are featured in 'Blue cathedral'?

Clarinet, flute, exotic percussion instruments like crotales, celesta, marimba, vibraphone, and prepared piano.

Who was Astor Piazzolla?

An Argentinian composer known for combining Argentine tango with jazz and classical music to create tango nuevo.

What is 'Libertango'?

One of Piazzolla's most popular pieces, representing the liberation of tango from its traditional roots.

What musical styles influenced Osvaldo Golijov?

Classical, tango nuevo, synagogue music, and Klezmer music.

What is 'La Pasión según San Marcos'?

A reinterpretation of the Baroque Passion genre, presenting Jesus from a Latin American perspective.

What characterizes music in the first quarter of the 21st century?

The presence of many independent composers writing in personal styles, leading to a variety of music without a uniting factor.

What is the role of fusion in contemporary music?

Fusion is key, combining elements from various musical traditions to connect with audiences.

What did composers seek to achieve in their works post-1970?

To connect with audiences and performers through melodic and memorable pieces.

What was the impact of modernism on audiences by 1970?

Modernist composers were losing audiences as their idioms did not hold broad appeal.

What did composers turn to for broader appeal in their music?

Spirituality, achieved through exotic sounds or performance methods.

What is the significance of the clarinet and flute in 'Blue cathedral'?

The clarinet represents Higdon's brother, while the flute represents Higdon herself.

What is the thematic focus of Higdon's compositions?

Creating sensations of contemplation, quiet peace, and celebration.

What type of textures does Higdon use in her music?

Homophonic textures to create an uncomplicated, soothing atmosphere.

What instruments are included in Piazzolla's original scoring for 'Libertango'?

Bandoneon, piano, Hammond organ, marimba, bass guitar, percussion, strings, and flutes.

What does the term 'tango nuevo' refer to?

A style that liberates tango from its past tradition, transforming it into an art form.

What is the significance of the year 2000 for Golijov's 'La Pasión según San Marcos'?

It was commissioned for the 250th anniversary of Bach's death.

What diverse musical elements does Golijov incorporate into his works?

Brazilian samba, Afro-Cuban salsa, Spanish flamenco, and Argentine tango.

What was the educational background of Jennifer Higdon?

She studied at the Curtis Institute and the University of Pennsylvania with George Crumb.