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Response to Monks Songs of Ascension Future of American Music

Future of American Music

Lecturer: Mr. Prof. Dr. Herzogenrath

Student: Ahmad Deyhimi 7167063

10 Hearing Responses for the Hausarbeit

Response to a piece of work by Monk – “Songs of Ascension.”

My initial reactions to "Songs of Ascension" by Monk were generally positive. As a first-time viewer and listener, I was moved by the beauty and power of the music and dance and the visual art surrounding them. However, the piece can be challenging or difficult to engage with, particularly for those unfamiliar with contemporary classical music or experimental dance. I noticed that one of the most striking elements of the work is its use of site-specific performance, which creates an immersive and sensory experience for the audience. Furthermore, the rich and complex musical harmonies and the dancers' intricate and expressive movements piqued my interest in the piece. The intricate harmonies and rhythms of the work, combined with the expressive movements of the dancers and the visual art surrounding them, can create a profound sense of awe and wonder, showcasing the complex, rich, and multi-layered nature of the piece. Overall, I praise "Songs of Ascension" for its innovative approach to performance and exploration of themes of spirituality and transcendence. While listening to "Songs of Ascension," the music provided a calm and meditation feeling. It is a work that invites audiences to engage with music, dance, and visual art in new and exciting ways. However, the usage of site-specific performance and the immersive nature of the piece can also be disorienting for some viewers, particularly if they need to become more familiar with this type of performance art. Though when I was listening to the piece for the first time, I felt inner peace and tranquility. Monk’s passion for experimenting with vocal sounds and creating an influential music piece could also be seen throughout her performance in “Songs of Ascension.”


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