Terry Riley: 90 Years of Maximalist Minimalism
Okay, here’s a breakdown of the provided text, focusing on key information and themes.
Main Subject: Terry Riley, a pioneering composer, particularly known for his minimalist work “In C.”
Key Points & Themes:
Riley’s Evolution: The article traces Riley’s career from his early minimalist work (“In C”) through his experimentation with improvisation, vocal ragas, and a return to composition using graphic scores. He’s moved away from conventional notation and toward visually-inspired scores.
Prolific Output: Riley has written a considerable body of work, including 30 string quartets (a significant contribution to the genre), as well as solo, chamber, and orchestral pieces.
Relationship with the LA Philharmonic: The Los Angeles Philharmonic is highlighted as being particularly supportive of Riley’s work, having commissioned his organ concerto, “At the Royal Majestic.”
“At the Royal Majestic”: This concerto is described as maximalist, drawing on a wide range of musical styles (gospel, jitterbug, ragtime, blues, raga, Minimalism).
Recent Work & Japan: Riley has been living in Japan, and this has influenced his recent projects. He recorded a solo piano album of jazz standards (“Standard(s)and”) in Japan, which he considers a significant artistic statement. he felt he needed to be in Japan to approach these songs in a new way.
“In C” Anniversary & Potential Return: riley had previously announced his retirement from performing “In C,” but is now considering a special 60th-anniversary performance under the full moon.
Personal Connection: The author has a long-standing personal connection with Riley, having known him as their student days at Mills College.
Health: Riley is managing a heart ailment but remains vital and productive.
summary:
The article portrays Terry Riley as a constantly evolving composer who continues to push boundaries.While he is best known for “In C,” his career has been marked by experimentation and a willingness to explore diverse musical styles. His recent move to Japan has sparked a new creative phase, leading to the recording of “Standard(s)and” and a potential reconsideration of his retirement from performing “In C.” The piece emphasizes Riley’s enduring influence and the Los Angeles Philharmonic’s support of his work.
Image Description:
The image shows Terry Riley visiting a shrine and koi pond in Kobuchizawa, Japan. It’s a photograph taken by Mark Swed of the Los Angeles Times. the image is available in multiple resolutions (768w, 1024w, 1200w) for different screen sizes.