Morton Feldman (1926-1987)

Morton Feldman emerged as one of the most distinctive voices in experimental music during the post-war avant-garde period. His work is characterized by extremely quiet dynamics, gradual evolution of sound, and unusual durations - some pieces extending beyond five hours in length.

Musical Approach

Feldman's compositional style centered on several key innovations:

• Extremely soft dynamics (often marked "as quiet as possible")
• Indeterminate music techniques allowing performers some freedom
• Extended durations that challenge conventional listening
• Subtle variations in timbre and sound texture
• Influence from abstract expressionism in visual art

His pieces often float in a meditative space between sound and silence, making him a crucial figure in the development of minimalism despite his resistance to that label.

Notable Works

Pattern Pieces

• "For Philip Guston" (4-5 hours)
• "String Quartet II" (6 hours)
• "Rothko Chapel" (1971)

These works exemplify his interest in extended duration and subtle variation, creating what he called "time canvases."

Artistic Relationships

Feldman was closely associated with:

• John Cage, who became a lifelong friend and artistic collaborator
• The New York School of composers
• Abstract expressionist painters, especially Mark Rothko and Philip Guston

Innovation in Notation

Feldman developed revolutionary approaches to musical notation, including:

• Graphic scores using abstract visual symbols
• Grid-based systems allowing performer choice
• Proportional notation methods

These innovations influenced generations of experimental composers and expanded the possibilities of musical representation.

Legacy

Feldman's influence extends beyond music into broader cultural spheres:

• Pioneering extended duration in performance art
• Connecting musical minimalism with visual art
• Advancing the role of silence and quiet sounds
• Challenging traditional concert formats

His work continues to influence contemporary experimental composition and sound art, particularly in approaches to duration, dynamics, and the relationship between sound and silence.

Critical Reception

While initially controversial, Feldman's work has been increasingly recognized for its:

• Unique approach to time and perception
• Integration of visual art concepts into music
• Innovation in notation and performance practice
• Influence on contemporary classical and experimental music

His compositions remain challenging yet deeply rewarding experiences that have helped reshape our understanding of musical time and space.