Observation, Observer, Reflection II

Every work is colored by the experience of the composer.

Undefined by rhythm and melody, these compositions originate in auditory imagery suggested by the continuum of sounds encountered throughout the day, moving from one environment to another.

No. 21 in G#m: "Environs I"

Environs I

Track Listing:
1.  Observation  13:58
2.  Emerging Figures  12:13
3.  Motion and Repose  18:25
4.  Periphery  8:50
5.  Grand Air  20:57

Black Mountain School / Environs I

The album Environs I developed concurrently with these notes over the past year.

Environs I

Certain developments will be apparent to the reader and listener.  While retaining the sustained atmosphere as being conducive to introspection as well as contemplative observation and enhanced perception, the piece emerges over the course of five sections, or movements if you prefer, each contributing variations in tone and mood to the total effect.

Additionally, rather than creating juxtapositions of sounds with the intent of encouraging consideration of specific ideas, events, and imagery, these musical elements were chosen and arranged in ways so as to heighten the beauty of the listening environment itself, regardless of setting or conditions.

Environs I, then, is the first album in a planned series broadly envisioned and designed for place and perspective.

From No. 21 in G#m, "Environs I": 1. Observation  (13:58) by Black Mountain School

Consciousness, Media, Awareness

Immersion in information culture alters states of mind and being.

These variations in perspective, brought about by the continuum of fragmentary imagery absorbed through electronic media, may often be likened, even in their complexity and diversity, to the cultural conditions of the denizens of Plato's cave, for whom the forms of shadows cast on the cave walls are reality.

To come into the light is to be deeply cognizant of living in the moment that is now and to more fully perceive the settings and atmospheres in which life is experienced and realized.

These compositions are designed to enhance those contemplative moments and perceptions.

Awareness and Idea

The sensory perceptions, engaged by reason, offer possibilities of expression in all forms.

Compositions designed with sounds communicate their peculiar effects by giving rise to states of mind both emotional and rational, as suggested through aural imagery.

The listener's thoughts and feelings, with their individual and cultural significance, contribute to the total effect of the work and its aesthetic force.

Perceptual Intensity

Refinement of sensory apprehension entails conscious choice, intent, and purpose.

The warrior exposed to danger engages the environment to a heightened degree, as do others who hazard risk in diverse circumstances.

More rarely are such states of being cultivated, through the art of contemplation, for increased attainment of moral reason, spiritual vision, and aesthetic perspective.

These compositions are designed to reflect, as much as possible, an impetus toward clarity of thought, feeling, expression and action.

Atmospheric Imagery

Observe combinations of sound perceived as occurring continuously through all waking environments.

Consider music evolving over the course of centuries according to such a paradigm.