Assessment

Electronic instruments have contributed to a tremendous expansion of musical resources. Their increasing sophistication has made available to the composer a palette of sounds ranging from pure tones at one extreme to the most complex sonic structures at the other. In addition, it has made possible the rhythmic organization of music to a degree of subtlety and complexity previously unattainable. One consequence of the use of electronic instruments has been the wide acceptance of a new definition of music as organized sound. Another consequence is the acceptance of the notion that the composer may communicate directly with an audience without the need for a performer as interpreter. Yet another consequence is the democratization of both experimental and traditional music composition through the availability of high-quality, reasonably priced instruments and computer software.

Some observers have felt that the elimination of the performer as interpreter, while it may enable the composer to realize perfectly his intentions, is nevertheless a serious loss. Performance, it is argued, is a creative discipline complementary to that of composition itself, and varieties of interpretation add richness to the musical experience; moreover, the physical presence of the performer infuses drama into what would be otherwise a purely aural, intellectual, and, by implication, somewhat lifeless event. But in fact many compositions for electronic instruments may be performed live with virtuosity and drama. With contemporary electronic instrument technology, the composer is free to choose whether or not the creative contribution of a performer will serve his artistic goals.