An Imperfect Circle: Reflections on perception, repetitive processes and fragility in my recent compositional work

The following thesis and the accompanying portfolio of compositions delve into two recent facets of my compositional investigation: the timbral and dialectical exploration of musical material in a state of instability, and the potential implications of repetitive structures on the perception of time of the listener. By discussing different compositions I outline the way these two features operate in my musical discourse and the way the techniques I developed relate to them. Moreover I address issues regarding the relationship between the objectivity of formal compositional processes and the inner subjectivity of the artwork itself. In this case, the influence of visual artists is particularly important, most notably of Agnes Martin. The manner in which processes and expression are balanced in her work, not only offered many insights on my compositional practice, but helped me to situate my work within a broader artistic context.