THE GRID AS A VISUAL COMPOSITION TOOL IN MORTON FELDMAN’S MUSIC

This article examines Morton Feldman’s use of graphic notation, focusing on the grid as both a compositional device and a visual framework. Feldman’s innovative approach reflects his search for a musical language that transcended conventional notation and emphasized sound as an autonomous phenomenon. The evolution of his grids, from early box structures to later flexible forms, illustrates his adaptability and his concern with balancing clarity and openness. By analyzing selected scores, including Intersection 2, and The King of Denmark, the study demonstrates how Feldman’s graphic methods shaped the relationship between composer, performer, and audience.

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Publication Details

Journal
Studia Universitatis Babeş-Bolyai Musica
Published
2025-12-30
DOI
https://doi.org/10.24193/subbmusica.2025.spiss4.06
Primary Topic
Musicology and Musical Analysis
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00
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article

THE GRID AS A VISUAL COMPOSITION TOOL IN MORTON FELDMAN’S MUSIC

Liviu-Valentin IFTENE, Alexandra BELIBOU
Studia Universitatis Babeş-Bolyai Musica
Musicology and Musical Analysis
article

THE GRID AS A VISUAL COMPOSITION TOOL IN MORTON FELDMAN’S MUSIC

Liviu-Valentin IFTENE, Alexandra BELIBOU
article en

Abstract

This article examines Morton Feldman’s use of graphic notation, focusing on the grid as both a compositional device and a visual framework. Feldman’s innovative approach reflects his search for a musical language that transcended conventional notation and emphasized sound as an autonomous phenomenon. The evolution of his grids, from early box structures to later flexible forms, illustrates his adaptability and his concern with balancing clarity and openness. By analyzing selected scores, including Intersection 2, and The King of Denmark, the study demonstrates how Feldman’s graphic methods shaped the relationship between composer, performer, and audience.

Studia Universitatis Babeş-Bolyai Musica
Transylvania University of Brașov (RO)
Openalex Percentile: Top 19%
Musicology and Musical Analysis
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