Thesis Format

Alternative Format

Non-Directed Time

Author

Danial Derakhshan, The University of Western OntarioFollow

Degree

Master of Music

Program

Music

Supervisor

Frehner, Paul

2nd Supervisor

De Souza, Jonathan Gregory

Abstract

Non-Directed Time is a sixteen-minute composition for mixed septet and soundtracks. Its two movements are entitled Brainwash and Introduction. The piece aims to challenge listeners' perception of passing time through gradual transformations between timeless, non-directional musical textures to moments of textural clarity and directionality. The musical material in my composition repeats at both large-scale and micro-scale levels, developing an alternative musical time structure and a sense of familiarity. Thus, changes in repeating material affect the experience of this time structure, in which time seems to expand and contract. Because these changes are gradual and their goals are unpredictable, listeners may feel suspended in time—until a sudden realization reveals the transformational process to them. The sense of waiting and temporal suspension, due to the transformational process, embodies the philosophical concept of "pure becoming."

Summary for Lay Audience

Non-Directed Time is a sixteen-minute piece for alto flute/piccolo, bass clarinet, electric guitar, piano/keyboard, violin, viola, contrabass, and soundtracks. Its two movements are entitled Brainwash and Introduction. The piece challenges listeners' perception of passing time through gradual transformations between ambiguity and clarity. The musical material in my composition repeats at both large-scale and small-scale, developing a sense of familiarity. Thus, changes in repeating material affect the experience of passing time, in which time seems to expand and contract. Because these changes are gradual and their goals are unpredictable, listeners may feel suspended in time—until a sudden realization reveals the transformational process to them. The sense of waiting and temporal suspension, due to the transformational process, embodies the philosophical concept of "pure becoming."

Recommended Citation

Derakhshan, Danial, "Non-Directed Time" (2023). Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository. 9243.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/etd/9243