Patterns & Metaphors
Composition
Template:
In many of the arts, but especially in music, the challenge is to hold the perceiver's attention by moving it through a variety of complementary modes such that the pattern of contrasts embodies a new level of significance. In music the composer may for example choose to alternate between different pitches, rhythms, degrees of loudness, or timbres (such as by use of different instruments). Themes may be repeated, moved to an alternate key, contrasted or transformed (retrograde, inversion, or retrograde of inversion). The challenge is to strike a meaningful balance in the alternation between recognizable repetition and introduction of novelty.
Metaphor:
The ordering of society can be conceived as a problem of interrelating (composing) the characteristic phenomena of social dynamics, especially when the social groups are each perceived as developing musical themes which partially respond to those of others.
[Features] The explicit clarification of the elements and variations that are possible. The contrast between technical possibilities and audience appeal. Explicit recognition of the importance of limits.
[Contrast] Aside from occasional references to 'trumpet blowing' and doing 'the same old number', this metaphor has not been systematically explored.
[Keys] Complex possibilities for the development of themes. Multi-part harmony. Need for an interesting balance between harmony and discord. Development of music and music appeal. Alternative tunings. Need for recognizable rules contrasted with the innovator's need to invent new rules (which may not then be recognizable). Lack of contact between those concerned with 'serious' music and those concerned with 'popular' music. Improvisation. The problem of the relationship between composer, interpreter, audience, and intermediaries (studios, manufacturers, distributors).<
