Extended Performance Techniques: The New Instrumentation

Extended performance techniques (EPTs) are a set of techniques that allow performers to extend the range of sounds and expressions that can be produced on traditional instruments. These techniques have been used by composers and performers for centuries, but they have only recently begun to be systematically studied and documented. In this article, we will explore the history, theory, and practice of EPTs. We will also provide examples of how these techniques have been used in contemporary music.

The Contemporary Violin: Extended Performance Techniques (The New Instrumentation Series Book 7)

by Patricia Strange

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	10927 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	350 pages
Paperback	:	64 pages
Item Weight	:	7.8 ounces
Dimensions	:	8.5 x 0.16 x 11 inches

FREE

History

The earliest known EPTs date back to the Middle Ages. In the 13th century, the Italian composer Giovanni da Palestrina wrote a piece for two choirs that required the singers to perform a number of extended techniques, including glissandi, trills, and vibrato. In the 16th century, the Spanish composer Tomás Luis de Victoria wrote a piece for solo voice that included a number of EPTs, such as microtones, flutter-tonguing, and sprechstimme. In the 17th century, the Italian composer Claudio Monteverdi wrote a number of operas that included EPTs, such as glissandi, trills, and pizzicato. In the 18th century, the Austrian composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart wrote a number of pieces for piano that included EPTs, such as trills, turns, and mordents. In the 19th century, the German composer Ludwig van Beethoven wrote a number of pieces for piano that included EPTs, such as trills, turns, and mordents.

In the 20th century, EPTs were used by a wide range of composers, including Béla Bartók, Igor Stravinsky, and Pierre Boulez. Bartók was particularly interested in the use of EPTs to create new sounds and textures. Stravinsky used EPTs to create a sense of rhythmic and melodic instability. Boulez used EPTs to create a sense of sonic chaos.

Theory

EPTs can be classified into two main categories: physical techniques and vocal techniques. Physical techniques are those that involve the manipulation of the instrument itself. Vocal techniques are those that involve the manipulation of the voice. There are a wide variety of EPTs, and new techniques are being developed all the time. Some of the most common EPTs include:

• Glissandi: A glissando is a smooth slide from one pitch to another. Glissandi can be performed on any instrument, but they are most commonly associated with stringed instruments and wind instruments.
• Trills: A trill is a rapid alternation between two pitches. Trills can be performed on any instrument, but they are most commonly associated with stringed instruments and wind instruments.
• Turns: A turn is a rapid alternation between three pitches. Turns can be performed on any instrument, but they are most commonly associated with stringed instruments and wind instruments.
• Mordents: A mordent is a rapid alternation between two pitches, with the first pitch being accented. Mordents can be performed on any instrument, but they are most commonly associated with stringed instruments and wind instruments.
• Flutter-tonguing: Flutter-tonguing is a technique that involves rapidly fluttering the tongue against the teeth. Flutter-tonguing can be used to create a variety of sounds, including bird calls, animal noises, and percussive effects.
• Sprechstimme: Sprechstimme is a technique that involves speaking through sung pitches. Sprechstimme can be used to create a variety of effects, including dramatic dialogue, recitation, and storytelling.

Practice

EPTs can be challenging to learn, but they can be mastered with practice. There are a number of things that performers can do to improve their EPT skills. First, it is important to have a strong foundation in traditional performance techniques. Second, it is important to be patient and persistent. Third, it is important to experiment with different EPTs and find the ones that work best for you. Finally, it is important to listen to recordings of other performers who use EPTs. This can help you to get an idea of how different EPTs can be used to create different sounds and effects.

EPTs are a powerful tool that can be used to extend the range of sounds and expressions that can be produced on traditional instruments. These techniques have been used by composers and performers for centuries, and they continue to be used in contemporary music today. If you are interested in learning more about EPTs, there are a number of resources available online and in libraries. You can also find EPT workshops and classes at many music schools and conservatories.

The Contemporary Violin: Extended Performance Techniques (The New Instrumentation Series Book 7)

by Patricia Strange

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	10927 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	350 pages
Paperback	:	64 pages
Item Weight	:	7.8 ounces
Dimensions	:	8.5 x 0.16 x 11 inches

FREE