Composition as Explanation: Eighth Blackbird's Groundbreaking Musical Journey

In the captivating world of contemporary classical music, composer David Lang has pushed the boundaries with his innovative work "Composition as Explanation." This hour-long piece, first performed in 2016 and subsequently expanded, challenges the traditional concert format by blending music, lecture, and theatrical elements. The members of the acclaimed ensemble Eighth Blackbird are tasked with not only playing their instruments but also delivering thought-provoking speeches, creating a unique and immersive experience for the audience.

Redefining the Concert Experience

Bridging the Gap Between Music and Lecture

At the heart of "Composition as Explanation" lies a captivating fusion of music and spoken word. The instrumentalists, including pianists, violinists, cellists, flutists, clarinetists, and percussionists, are required to deliver lectures during the performance, drawing inspiration from a 1926 lecture by the renowned writer Gertrude Stein. These spoken texts, infused with Stein's signature repetitions and circumlocutions, offer the audience a glimpse into the creative process behind the work. The musicians must navigate the delicate balance of playing their instruments and conveying the nuances of Stein's philosophical musings, creating a truly multifaceted performance.

Blurring the Boundaries of Genre

Lang's composition defies easy categorization, blurring the lines between concert work and music-theater. The involvement of a theater director in the live performances further emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of the piece, challenging the traditional boundaries of classical music. The instrumentalists not only play their instruments but also engage in "surface" actions that mimic the sounds and gestures of writing, adding an extra layer of visual and aural interest to the performance.

A Showcase of Multitalented Artistry

"Composition as Explanation" is a brilliant showcase of the multitalented artistry of Eighth Blackbird. The ensemble, known for their virtuosic playing and innovative programming, rises to the occasion with their seamless integration of music, lecture, and theatrical elements. The result is a captivating and unclassifiable work that draws parallels to the theater pieces of Heiner Goebbels, particularly "Black on White," which was written for Ensemble Modern.

A Unique Musical Journey

The musical journey created by Lang in "Composition as Explanation" is uniquely his own, taking the listener through a diverse range of sonic experiences. From chiming, crystalline beauty to stomping free-for-alls, vertiginous instrumental solos, and insistent minimalist repetitions, the work keeps the audience on the edge of their seats, never knowing what to expect next. The composer's masterful blending of these disparate elements creates a cohesive and compelling narrative that challenges the listener's preconceptions about the nature of music and performance.

Pushing the Boundaries of Artistic Expression

"Composition as Explanation" represents a bold and innovative step forward in the realm of contemporary classical music. By seamlessly integrating music, lecture, and theatrical elements, Lang and Eighth Blackbird have created a work that transcends traditional genre boundaries and pushes the boundaries of artistic expression. This groundbreaking piece invites the audience to engage with the creative process in a deeply immersive and thought-provoking manner, leaving a lasting impression on all who experience it.