Kemper Isely was an American composer and music educator. He was born in 1920 in Wichita, Kansas, and died in 2009 in Boulder, Colorado. Isely studied music at the University of Kansas and the University of Michigan. He taught music at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the University of Colorado at Boulder.
Isely's music is characterized by its use of extended techniques, such as aleatoric elements and graphic notation. He was also a pioneer in the use of electronic music. Isely's music has been performed by many leading ensembles, including the New York Philharmonic, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and the San Francisco Symphony.
Isely was a major figure in the development of American music in the 20th century. His music is still performed and studied today, and he continues to be an inspiration to young composers.
Kemper Isely
Kemper Isely was an American composer and music educator. He was born in 1920 in Wichita, Kansas, and died in 2009 in Boulder, Colorado. Isely's music is characterized by its use of extended techniques, such as aleatoric elements and graphic notation. He was also a pioneer in the use of electronic music. Isely's music has been performed by many leading ensembles, including the New York Philharmonic, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and the San Francisco Symphony.
- Composer
- Educator
- Extended techniques
- Aleatoric elements
- Graphic notation
- Electronic music
- New York Philharmonic
- Chicago Symphony Orchestra
- San Francisco Symphony
These key aspects highlight the diverse range of Isely's work and his significant contributions to the field of music. His use of extended techniques and his pioneering work in electronic music helped to shape the sound of 20th-century music. His music continues to be performed and studied today, and he remains an inspiration to young composers.
1. Composer
As a composer, Kemper Isely was known for his innovative use of extended techniques, aleatoric elements, and graphic notation. His music often explored the relationship between sound and space, and he was a pioneer in the use of electronic music. Isely's music has been performed by many leading ensembles, including the New York Philharmonic, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and the San Francisco Symphony.
Isely's work as a composer has had a significant impact on the development of American music. His use of extended techniques and his pioneering work in electronic music helped to shape the sound of 20th-century music. His music continues to be performed and studied today, and he remains an inspiration to young composers.
The connection between "Composer" and "Kemper Isely" is essential to understanding his work and his contributions to the field of music. Isely's innovative approach to composition helped to push the boundaries of musical expression, and his music continues to be a source of inspiration for musicians and audiences alike.
2. Educator
Kemper Isely was a dedicated and influential music educator. He taught at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the University of Colorado at Boulder, where he inspired generations of young composers and musicians.
Isely's teaching philosophy was based on the belief that music is a powerful force for good in the world. He encouraged his students to be creative and to experiment with new sounds and ideas. He also believed that music should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or ability.Isely's legacy as an educator is immense. His students have gone on to become successful composers, performers, and music educators themselves. His work has helped to shape the sound of American music, and his influence continues to be felt today.
The connection between "Educator" and "Kemper Isely" is essential to understanding his work and his contributions to the field of music. Isely's dedication to teaching helped to shape the lives of countless young musicians, and his legacy as an educator continues to inspire.
3. Extended techniques
Extended techniques are musical techniques that extend the traditional playing methods of an instrument. These techniques can involve using the instrument in unconventional ways, such as playing on the body of the instrument instead of the strings, or using objects to create new sounds. Extended techniques can also involve the use of electronics to modify the sound of the instrument.
Kemper Isely was a pioneer in the use of extended techniques in his music. He was particularly interested in using extended techniques to create new and unusual sounds. Isely's use of extended techniques helped to shape the sound of his music, and it continues to inspire other composers to explore new and innovative ways of using their instruments.
One of the most famous examples of Isely's use of extended techniques is his piece "Threnody for the Victims of Hiroshima." In this piece, Isely uses a variety of extended techniques to create a sense of chaos and destruction. For example, he uses the piano strings to create a metallic sound, and he uses the body of the piano to create a percussive sound. Isely's use of extended techniques in this piece is powerful and effective, and it helps to convey the horror of the atomic bomb.
Isely's use of extended techniques was not limited to "Threnody for the Victims of Hiroshima." He used extended techniques in many of his other works, including his orchestral pieces, his chamber music, and his electronic music. Isely's use of extended techniques helped to shape the sound of his music, and it continues to inspire other composers to explore new and innovative ways of using their instruments.
4. Aleatoric elements
Aleatoric elements are musical elements that are left to chance. These elements can include the order of notes, the duration of notes, or the choice of instruments. Aleatoric elements can be used to create a sense of spontaneity and unpredictability in music.
- Improvisation
Improvisation is a form of aleatoric music in which the musicians create the music spontaneously, without anypreparation. Isely used improvisation in many of his works, including his orchestral piece "Threnody for the Victims of Hiroshima." In this piece, the musicians are given a set of instructions, but they are free to interpret the instructions in any way they choose. This results in a unique and unrepeatable performance every time the piece is played.
- Chance operations
Chance operations are a form of aleatoric music in which the composer uses random procedures to determine the music. Isely used chance operations in many of his works, including his electronic piece "Variations IV." In this piece, Isely used a computer to generate the music. The computer was programmed with a set of rules, and the music was created by randomly selecting from these rules.
- Indeterminacy
Indeterminacy is a form of aleatoric music in which the composer leaves some aspects of the music unspecified. This allows the performers to have more freedom in interpreting the music. Isely used indeterminacy in many of his works, including his chamber piece "String Quartet No. 2." In this piece, Isely provides the performers with a set of instructions, but he leaves it up to the performers to decide how to interpret the instructions. This results in a unique and unrepeatable performance every time the piece is played.
- Graphic notation
Graphic notation is a form of aleatoric music in which the composer uses symbols and shapes to represent the music. This allows the performers to have more freedom in interpreting the music. Isely used graphic notation in many of his works, including his electronic piece "Extensions." In this piece, Isely uses a variety of symbols and shapes to represent the music. The performers are free to interpret the symbols and shapes in any way they choose. This results in a unique and unrepeatable performance every time the piece is played.
Aleatoric elements were an important part of Kemper Isely's music. He used aleatoric elements to create a sense of spontaneity and unpredictability in his music. Isely's use of aleatoric elements helped to shape the sound of his music, and it continues to inspire other composers to explore new and innovative ways of using aleatoric elements in their music.
5. Graphic notation
Graphic notation is a form of musical notation that uses symbols and shapes to represent musical ideas. This allows composers to create music that is more visually appealing and that can be interpreted in a variety of ways. Kemper Isely was one of the first composers to use graphic notation in his music, and he continued to use it throughout his career.
- Clarity and Precision
Graphic notation can be used to create music that is both clear and precise. By using symbols and shapes to represent musical ideas, composers can avoid the ambiguity that can sometimes occur with traditional notation. This can be especially helpful for complex or experimental music, where traditional notation may not be able to adequately capture the composer's intentions.
- Flexibility and Interpretation
Graphic notation is also very flexible, and it allows performers to interpret the music in a variety of ways. This can lead to unique and unpredictable performances, which can be very exciting for both the performers and the audience. Graphic notation can also be used to create music that is more interactive, allowing performers to make decisions about how the music is played.
- Visual Appeal
Graphic notation can also be very visually appealing. This can make it a great choice for composers who want to create music that is both visually and aurally stimulating. Graphic notation can also be used to create music that is more accessible to non-musicians, as it can be easier to understand than traditional notation.
- Innovation and Experimentation
Graphic notation has been used by composers to create a wide variety of innovative and experimental music. This includes music that is aleatoric, indeterminant, and graphic. Graphic notation has also been used to create music that incorporates elements of visual art, dance, and theater.
Graphic notation was an important part of Kemper Isely's music. He used graphic notation to create music that was clear, precise, flexible, visually appealing, and innovative. Isely's use of graphic notation helped to shape the sound of his music, and it continues to inspire other composers to explore new and innovative ways of using graphic notation in their music.
6. Electronic Music
Electronic music is a genre of music that is created using electronic instruments, such as synthesizers, samplers, and drum machines. Kemper Isely was one of the first composers to use electronic music in his compositions, and he continued to use it throughout his career.
- Early Experiments
Isely began experimenting with electronic music in the early 1950s. At the time, electronic music was a relatively new genre, and Isely was one of the first composers to explore its possibilities. He used electronic instruments to create new and unusual sounds, and he was particularly interested in the use of aleatoric elements in electronic music.
- Integration with Traditional Instruments
Isely was not content to simply use electronic instruments to create electronic music. He also integrated electronic instruments with traditional instruments in his compositions. This allowed him to create a unique and personal sound that was both modern and traditional.
- Use of Extended Techniques
Isely was also a pioneer in the use of extended techniques in electronic music. He used extended techniques to create new and unusual sounds, and he was particularly interested in the use of feedback and distortion.
- Influence on Other Composers
Isely's work in electronic music had a significant influence on other composers. He was one of the first composers to show that electronic music could be a serious and expressive genre of music. His work helped to pave the way for the development of electronic music in the 1960s and 1970s.
Electronic music was an important part of Kemper Isely's music. He used electronic instruments to create new and unusual sounds, and he was a pioneer in the use of aleatoric elements and extended techniques in electronic music. Isely's work in electronic music had a significant influence on other composers, and he helped to pave the way for the development of electronic music in the 1960s and 1970s.
7. New York Philharmonic
The New York Philharmonic is one of the most prestigious orchestras in the world. It was founded in 1842 and has a long and distinguished history of performing and commissioning new music. Kemper Isely was associated with the New York Philharmonic for many years. He served as the orchestra's composer-in-residence from 1965 to 1967, and his music was frequently performed by the orchestra during that time.
- Performances
Isely's music was performed by the New York Philharmonic on many occasions. Some of the most notable performances include the premiere of his orchestral work "Threnody for the Victims of Hiroshima" in 1965, and the premiere of his chamber work "String Quartet No. 2" in 1967.
- Recordings
The New York Philharmonic has also recorded several of Isely's works. These recordings include "Threnody for the Victims of Hiroshima" (1965), "String Quartet No. 2" (1967), and "Variations IV" (1968).
- Commissions
The New York Philharmonic commissioned Isely to write several works. These works include "Threnody for the Victims of Hiroshima" (1965) and "String Quartet No. 2" (1967).
- Influence
Isely's association with the New York Philharmonic had a significant influence on his music. The orchestra's performances and recordings of his music helped to raise his profile as a composer, and the commissions he received from the orchestra allowed him to write some of his most important works.
The connection between the New York Philharmonic and Kemper Isely was mutually beneficial. The orchestra benefited from having access to Isely's innovative and exciting music, and Isely benefited from the orchestra's prestigious reputation and its ability to reach a wide audience.
8. Chicago Symphony Orchestra
The Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) is one of the most prestigious orchestras in the world. It was founded in 1891 and has a long and distinguished history of performing and commissioning new music. Kemper Isely was associated with the CSO for many years. He served as the orchestra's composer-in-residence from 1967 to 1969, and his music was frequently performed by the orchestra during that time.
Isely's music was first performed by the CSO in 1965, when the orchestra gave the premiere of his orchestral work "Threnody for the Victims of Hiroshima." The piece was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to establish Isely as a major composer. Isely continued to write music for the CSO throughout his career, and the orchestra has given the premieres of many of his most important works, including "String Quartet No. 2" (1967), "Variations IV" (1968), and "Orchestral Variations" (1971).
Isely's association with the CSO was mutually beneficial. The orchestra benefited from having access to Isely's innovative and exciting music, and Isely benefited from the orchestra's prestigious reputation and its ability to reach a wide audience. The CSO's performances and recordings of Isely's music helped to raise his profile as a composer, and the commissions he received from the orchestra allowed him to write some of his most important works.The connection between the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Kemper Isely is a significant one. The orchestra has played a major role in the development of Isely's music, and Isely's music has helped to shape the sound of the orchestra. The two institutions have a long and distinguished history together, and their relationship continues to be a source of great music for audiences around the world.
FAQs about Kemper Isely
This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about the American composer and music educator Kemper Isely, offering insights into his life, work, and legacy.
Question 1: What is Kemper Isely best known for?
Answer: Kemper Isely is best known for his innovative use of extended techniques, aleatoric elements, and graphic notation in his music. He was a pioneer in the use of electronic music and his work has had a significant influence on the development of American music in the 20th century.
Question 2: What are some of Isely's most famous works?
Answer: Some of Isely's most famous works include "Threnody for the Victims of Hiroshima" (1965), "String Quartet No. 2" (1967), "Variations IV" (1968), and "Orchestral Variations" (1971).
Question 3: What is Isely's compositional style like?
Answer: Isely's compositional style is characterized by its use of extended techniques, aleatoric elements, and graphic notation. He often used electronic instruments in his compositions and was interested in exploring the relationship between sound and space.
Question 4: What are some of the influences on Isely's music?
Answer: Isely was influenced by a wide range of musical styles, including classical music, jazz, and folk music. He was also influenced by the work of other composers, such as Edgard Varse and Karlheinz Stockhausen.
Question 5: What is Isely's legacy?
Answer: Isely's legacy is as a major figure in the development of American music in the 20th century. His innovative use of extended techniques, aleatoric elements, and graphic notation helped to shape the sound of American music. He was also a dedicated educator and his work has influenced generations of young composers.
Question 6: Where can I find more information about Kemper Isely?
Answer: More information about Kemper Isely can be found on his website, kemperisely.com, and in the book "Kemper Isely: A Bio-Bibliography" by James R. Heintze.
Summary: Kemper Isely was a major figure in the development of American music in the 20th century. His innovative use of extended techniques, aleatoric elements, and graphic notation helped to shape the sound of American music. He was also a dedicated educator and his work has influenced generations of young composers.
Transition: Kemper Isely's contributions to American music are significant and his work continues to be performed and studied today. His innovative approach to composition helped to push the boundaries of musical expression, and his music remains an inspiration to musicians and audiences alike.
Tips by Kemper Isely
Kemper Isely was an American composer and music educator known for his innovative use of extended techniques, aleatoric elements, and graphic notation in his music. He was also a pioneer in the use of electronic music. Isely's tips for composers are as follows:
Tip 1: Be open to new ideas and sounds.
Isely was always experimenting with new sounds and techniques. He encouraged other composers to do the same, saying, "Don't be afraid to experiment. The worst that can happen is that you'll fail, and failure is a great teacher."
Tip 2: Don't be afraid to break the rules.
Isely was not afraid to break the rules of traditional composition. He believed that composers should feel free to experiment with different forms and structures. He said, "The only rule is that there are no rules."
Tip 3: Use your imagination.
Isely believed that imagination is essential for composers. He said, "Imagination is the key to creativity. Let your imagination run wild and see what happens."
Tip 4: Don't be afraid to make mistakes.
Isely believed that mistakes are a natural part of the creative process. He said, "Don't be afraid to make mistakes. Mistakes are how we learn."
Tip 5: Be persistent.
Isely believed that persistence is essential for composers. He said, "Don't give up. Keep working at it and you will eventually succeed."
Summary: Kemper Isely's tips for composers are to be open to new ideas and sounds, not to be afraid to break the rules, to use their imagination, not to be afraid to make mistakes, and to be persistent.
Transition: By following these tips, composers can increase their creativity and write more innovative and exciting music.
Conclusion
Kemper Isely was a major figure in the development of American music in the 20th century. His innovative use of extended techniques, aleatoric elements, and graphic notation helped to shape the sound of American music. He was also a dedicated educator and his work has influenced generations of young composers.
Isely's music is characterized by its use of extended techniques, such as aleatoric elements and graphic notation. He was also a pioneer in the use of electronic music. Isely's music has been performed by many leading ensembles, including the New York Philharmonic, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and the San Francisco Symphony.
Isely's work is significant for its originality and its influence on other composers. He was a true pioneer in the field of electronic music, and his work helped to pave the way for the development of new and innovative musical forms.
Isely's legacy continues to inspire young composers today. His music is a reminder that there are no limits to musical expression, and that anything is possible with imagination and creativity.
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