Domino-music: a journey to enlightenment

What is Domino-music?

Domino-music is a unique approach to music composition and performance that combines elements of chance, improvisation, and collaboration. The term was coined by musician and composer John Cage, who was a pioneer in the use of non-traditional methods of creating music. In domino-music, the composer sets up a series of musical «dominos» – or rules – that guide the performers in their improvisation. The result is a constantly evolving and unpredictable musical experience that challenges both the musicians and the audience.

History of Domino-music

The concept of domino-music can be traced back to Cage’s experiments with chance operations in the 1950s. Cage, along with fellow composer Morton Feldman, sought to break free from traditional forms of music composition and explore new ways of creating art. They were influenced by the ideas of the Dadaists and the Surrealists, who believed in the power of randomness and spontaneity in art.

Domino-music gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s as musicians and composers began to embrace the idea of collaboration and improvisation. Artists like Karlheinz Stockhausen, Terry Riley, and Steve Reich all experimented with domino-music in their compositions, pushing the boundaries of what was considered «music» at the time.

Philosophy of Domino-music

At the heart of domino-music is the idea that music is a journey, not a destination. By embracing chance and improvisation, musicians are able to tap into their creativity and explore new sonic possibilities. Domino-music challenges traditional notions of harmony, melody, and rhythm, inviting both the performers and the audience to participate in the creation of the music in real time.

Domino-music also emphasizes the importance of collaboration and communication between musicians. In a domino-music performance, each player is responsible for responding to the actions of the others, creating a dynamic and interactive musical dialogue. This sense of shared responsibility and mutual respect fosters a sense of unity and connection among the performers, leading to a deeper and more meaningful musical experience.

Experiencing Domino-music

Attending a domino-music performance is a truly unique and immersive experience. The unpredictability of the music keeps the audience on the edge of their seats, never knowing what will happen next. Each performance is a one-of-a-kind event, with no two shows ever being the same.

Domino-music challenges the listener to let go of their preconceived notions of what music should be and to embrace the unexpected. It invites the audience to actively participate in the creation of the music, blurring the lines between performer and spectator. In this way, domino-music offers a journey to enlightenment – a chance to experience music in a new and transformative way.