Sound innovations and experiments in piano works by John Cage

Abstract

The article considers the innovation of the American composer of the XX century John Cage in the field of artistically aesthetic presentation of musical sound. The composer was an important figure in the development of experimental music. His sound experiments using new sound capabilities and innovations that contributed to the discovery of a wide range of new timbres that would correspond to scientific and technological progress and cardinal transformations. His radical changes in the traditional way of sound production and in the sound of instruments. New perception of sound that opened up new opportunities for creativity. The conviction that every sound, even noise has its own potential and can be used to create art and create music. He expanded the horizons in the perception of sound, abandoning the established musical norms and opening new paths for creativity.

The invention of the «prepared» piano where it is analyzed where he transformed the melodic features of the instrument and emphasized the «percussion nature» of the piano. This invention transformed the idea of  the capabilities of the instrument, expanding its sound capabilities. Concept of prepared piano and its meaning. An approach that creates new musical possibilities and opens the door to an experiment in music, where each object introduced into the piano becomes a potential source of sound. The connection between the compositions of the compositor for the «prepared» piano and its musical philosophy.

Key compositions that reflect Cage's innovative approach are explored, and represent the development of his musical philosophy. John Cage's compositions for «prepared» piano, such as «Sonatas and Interludes», «Three Dances», «Music of Changes» reflect not only technical mastery, but also an understanding of the composer's musical philosophy. These works reflect his desire for free improvisation, the rejection of standard musical forms and the search for new ways of expression. In his experiments with the «prepared» piano, Cage continued his musical philosophy, which consisted in chance, in acousticism and coexistence of sounds around.