DISPERSE AND DISPLAY: STRUCTURAL STRATEGIES FOR MODULAR APPROACHES IN COMPOSITIONAL AND INSTRUMENTAL PRACTICE

Abstract

Disperse and Display provides a historic context for a portfolio of compositions by Cor Fuhler. It presents an in-depth investigation of modular approaches within open works, and alterations of the piano. Part I, The Modular Work, investigates ‘modular composing’, a term used as umbrella to describe a form of composing in which a number of prefabricated, independent and flexible units, need to be assembled to make a performance. An analysis of strategies involved in the structuring process and performance of modular music includes: how to organize the modules in time, how to alternate between them, and the impact a chosen strategy has on the overall outcome. The focus is on real-time decision-making processes during the performance. Part II, The Altered Piano, investigates the motivation behind temporary alterations to a standard piano approached from different perspectives: composer, artist, improviser and instrument builder. Part III, Analytical Notes, presents a holistic analysis of the portfolio of compositions, consisting of modular works played by altered instruments.