Structure of compositions and related trends in music during the late 19th to early 20th century were characterized by notable departures, like the use of chromaticism and dissonance, or rather, the extensive application of the traditional tonal system, which slowly led to its own collapse. Individualism also affected on how every detail of a composition is put together. The use of distant registers; variations on timbre, texture, and modulation were employed to evoke a particular mood. Also, blurring transitions and manipulating key centers contributed to a certain level of ambiguity and uniqueness to every musical piece.
Backgrounds of key composers during the transitional period have resonating influences on their notable works, if not during the whole the course of their active career. Mahler's Austrian influence, analytic instrumentation and lyricism, along with the feeling of uncertainty and pessimism in his compositions differentiates him with Richard Strauss' consistency and confidence along with his revolutionized concept of orchestral sound and the progressive German structures. Meanwhile in France, Debussy's focus on programmatic approach with atmospheric and colorific effects put him in much contrast with Satie's "playfulness", with his lean, and sometimes nondevelopmental, compositions. By the way, I had fun listening to that snippet (or is that all?) of his "Dessicated Embryos."
Being my first music course (yes, I'm not a music major), I don't really know what to expect on this course. AllI know about it is the course description, "20th Century Music." A three-word identifier carrying a large scope in history, ideas, music and everything in between. I don't know whether my rudimentary knowledge in music would take me anywhere. Maybe I'll learn a bit jazz, rock 'n roll, blues, soul and a few things; maybe I'll start to like the Beatles, Hendrix, and some figures in the swingin Sixties. Yeah, too much popular music.
Maybe this would be the right moment to jump into what I've been missing a 'lot' (well, not all) in music, on how it developed during the course of the last century and on where it thrives in the current setting. Maybe I'll pick up some of those and I'll become, at least, a "more intelligent" music enthusiast. It may take some time, probably an indefinite transition. But still, I'll give it a try.
