Ensemble Fantasque: Beyond Urban

Whether subconscious or not, these composers are affected by their own environment. Varèse’s output is influenced by sounds of the city, which can be heard in his Octandre. Wuorinen’s New York Notes reflects the city’s liveliness and bustle. On the other hand, Schoenberg and Amelia Brey, who live in urban surroundings, express things that transcend beyond the sounds of the streets in their music. Yet, both come up with music that is different in style and expression. To what extent are these composers really affected by urban life?