Minimalism in music is a style and aesthetic that emerged in the 1960s and gained prominence in the late 20th century. Here’s an overview of the concept:
Minimalism is characterised by extreme simplicity and repetition of musical elements.
It often features a steady pulse, static harmony, and gradual transformation of musical patterns.
Repetition: Minimalist compositions typically involve the repetition of short musical phrases, which may undergo subtle changes over time.
Gradual Process: Changes in the music occur slowly and incrementally, often creating a hypnotic effect.
Tonality: Unlike atonal music, minimalism often employs consonant harmonies and may be rooted in traditional tonality or modality.
Texture: Pieces often feature a layered texture, with different instruments or voices repeating patterns that interlock or phase in and out of sync.
Duration: Minimalist works can be quite lengthy, allowing for the gradual unfolding of musical ideas.
Steve Reich: “Music for 18 Musicians” exemplifies the use of pulsing rhythms and gradual changes.
Philip Glass: Known for his operas like “Einstein on the Beach” and film scores that employ minimalist techniques.
Terry Riley: “In C” is considered one of the foundational works of minimalism.
John Adams: Combines minimalist techniques with more traditional orchestral writing in works like “Short Ride in a Fast Machine”.
Minimalism has had a significant impact on various genres, including popular music, film scores, and electronic music. It represented a reaction against the complexity of serialist and avant-garde music, offering a more accessible alternative.
The movement emerged alongside minimalist visual art and was influenced by non-Western music, particularly Indian classical music and West African drumming.
In summary, minimalism in music is characterised by its use of repetition, gradual processes, and simplified musical elements. It has become an influential style in contemporary classical music and beyond, offering a distinctive approach to composition that emphasises simplicity and gradual transformation.