Week 2: Reaction to "The Art of Noises"
This is an interesting companion piece to Cage's "Credo", being roughly contemporary. It is far more specific than Cage in terms of practical recommendations, and hence is somewhat dated, especially when he outlines the components of a Futurist orchestra.
He is right on target in his description of the classical music world, however, I am struck by his omission of the world of popular music. Also absent is a consideration of traditional or "primitive" music, which relies on very simple instruments, and hence is closer to "noise".
As with the Cage piece, I am struck by how Russolo homes in the emotional impact of the music as a key factor. He is calling for music that can evoke the emotions of a modern city dweller, perhaps different from those of a wealthy bourgeois of the 19th century...
I found this an interesting piece, and will certainly keep it in mind for my field recording exercises!