Squares by Raoul van Herpen

"Influenced by John Cage I made a canvas with equal squares. Every square determines what should be played (silence, sound or noise) and its duration. In doing this I became intrigued what it would sound like in a quartet format. So I went on to replace the “noise” for “sound” or “silence” and gave pitch to the “sound” squares.
Every part in the composition has its own set of 4 notes, together they form a 12-tone row. Every part has also a set of rules and calculations for the duration of sounds and silence. Part 2 and 3 have the addition of playing staccato and more freedom for the players to choose what octave it should be played.

In the composition all the sounds and silences are floating around each other in a semi-random manner, while the repeating notes make it coherent. This rather peaceful work reminded me a lot of Morton Feldmans work (which also is a big influence). Like in some of his work, all music is to be played soft and thoughtful, which makes it a delicate and intimate experience."

This is 'My Ambient Machines' #9.

Relaxing ambient/experimental music based on synths and field recordings.

Also maker of 'My Ambient Machines' - a fanzine about modular synths and other ambient machines. Featuring artists, labels & instrument makers.