gmk@uicsl.UUCP (06/14/84)
#R:astrovax:-36800:uicsl:6700001:000:993 uicsl!gmk Jun 13 20:30:00 1984 This discussion of modern music has centered on the aesthetics (or lack thereof) of Schoenberg's 12-tone school. No one has mentioned one of the most brilliant composers of the Twentieth Century: Aleksandr Scriabin. Like Schoenberg, Scriabin developed his own mathematical system of composition. Personally, I find Scriabin's music much more "listenable" than 12-tone, even though it is just as far removed from tonality. Those interested should check out: Symphony No. 4: "The Poem of Ecstacy" Symphony No. 5: "Prometheus: The Poem of Fire" Universe: Part I of the Prefatory Action to the Proposed "Mysterium" The last work was actually composed by a contemporary Scriabin scholar named Aleksandr Nemtin from Scriabin's sketches. Part II may be available now; I haven't checked recently. Also, many of Scriabin's later piano compositions were trial runs for themes and ideas that were to be eventually incorporated into "Mysterium". Gary Koob ...!pur-ee!uiucdcs!uicsg!gmk