From Sound to Score : A search for a post-genre compositional process

Abstract: In this thesis, the author explored an alternative way of composing contemporary western art music, being inspired by thoughts regarding post-genre. The composition method incorporated the use of the Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software Cubase. Musical gestures were recorded with two musicians which where used as samples in the DAW to compose the piece Lines. The role of the score was shifted by moving it’s realisation to after the aural result was completed. The process was inspiring and was perceived to work well for a textural piece of music. Using a DAW when composing contemporary western art music is something that could be explored by classically trained composers in favour of working solely in a notation software. The result was the digitally made recording of Lines and two scores; one aimed to reproduce the recorded version (where only violin and violoncello where used) and another where adjustments where made, mainly in the instrumentation, to facilitate live performances by string orchestras.