Sounding out the past

Abstract

This thesis explores the relationship between music composition and historical narrative, and considers whether the creative works inspired by historical events offer an alternative perspective on the past. To test this idea the thesis focuses on two significant, though unrelated, moments in history: Australia's involvement in World War One, and the shifting social and economic chronicle of Detroit since the mid-twentieth century. I address these two periods of history from a number of perspectives. Firstly, I analyse how other composers have creatively engaged with and reflected upon each moment. In particular, I examine the musical language of Australian composers who have been inspired by World War One, and American composers writing Detroit-focussed works, to show how their musical language underpins the histories they aim to reflect. I also assess critical responses to various works, demonstrating how the reception of music can differ depending on current social and political factors. I then seek to establish my personal and creative connection to each of these historical narratives, outlining the historical research I undertook prior to writing compositions, Gassed Shell (Severe) and Hum. The works, premiered in Melbourne and Detroit respectively, represent a major component of the thesis. Their scores are included in full. The connective tissue between these elements is a detailed exploration how my research informed and shaped my creative practice. Moreover, I provide insight into the musical techniques and decisions I made to fulfil my compositional intentions and, in turn, to gain fresh perspectives on the historical events. I seek to push beyond a conventional exegesis to self-reflexive analysis. In conclusion, I frame the music of composers dealing with the past through an interdisciplinary lens, drawing upon cultural anthropologist Clifford Geertz's idea of 'thick description' to recontextualise these creative processes as akin to historical practice, and, as such, potential methods for obtaining new viewpoints on history.