Iannis Xenakis

The Greek composer and architect, Iannis Xenakis utilized statistical mathematics in his musical compositions. He combined mathematics with composition, one example being the probability of distributions. He named this “Stochastic Music” and experimented with its varying possibilities. There are many reasons for Xenakis’ interest in random functions of music. They gave him an understanding of serial music, which is defined by Princeton university as “20th century music that uses a definite order of notes as a thematic basis for musical composition.” In addition, stochastic music allowed him to create compositions using natural events such as rain, hail or even public gatherings. It allowed him to see logical structures and patterns in the composition of music all defined by probability and random functions.

In 1962, Xenakis started using computers in his stochastic compositions. Computers allowed him to synthesize various electronic sounds. At one point, Xenakis used the patterns of circles in his sound compositions. From what I understand, he also payed close attention to factors of repetition. He realized that as music moves toward complex noise, the more complicated it becomes to synthesize. It is quite fascinating to see the various methods used in the creation of sound. Xenakis used the randomness of natural events in order to synthesize music. By listening to an actual piece, it would be difficult to understand the complexities behind such compositions. It just goes to show how architects and engineers manipulate space in order to produce specific sound environments.

Works Cited:

Coburn, Robert. “Review.” Leonardo 33:1 (2002): 65.

Luque, Sergio. “The Stochastic Synthesis of Iannis Xenakis.” Leonardo Music Journal 19:1 (2009): 77-84.

Computerized Sound Art