An Ending (Ascent) - Dissonant Textures Collide with Haunting Melodic Fragments

“An Ending (Ascent)”, a pivotal piece composed by the enigmatic American experimental musician Pauline Oliveros, stands as a testament to her pioneering work in deep listening and sonic exploration. Released in 1985 on the album “Deep Listening,” this composition exemplifies Oliveros’ dedication to pushing the boundaries of traditional musical structures, inviting listeners into a world of abstract soundscapes where dissonance intertwines with haunting melodic fragments.

Oliveros, who sadly passed away in 2016, left an indelible mark on the world of experimental music. She challenged conventional notions of melody and harmony, embracing instead the richness and complexity of sonic environments. Her concept of “Deep Listening” encouraged a mindful approach to sound, urging listeners to engage with every nuance and texture present in a musical work. This philosophy permeates “An Ending (Ascent),” which unfolds as a sonic journey that rewards careful attention and patient immersion.

The piece begins with a sparse and ethereal soundscape. Metallic chimes and clanging objects weave together in a tapestry of unsettling dissonance, creating an atmosphere of tension and anticipation. Gradually, faint melodic fragments emerge from the texture, like fragile tendrils reaching towards light. These melodies are fragmented and enigmatic, defying easy categorization. They hover on the edges of perception, tempting the listener to grasp their meaning while simultaneously slipping away.

As “An Ending (Ascent)” progresses, the sonic landscape evolves. The dissonance intensifies, punctuated by bursts of electronic noise and guttural vocalizations. The melodic fragments become more insistent, occasionally coalescing into fleeting moments of haunting beauty. It’s as though Oliveros is guiding us through a labyrinthine soundscape, constantly shifting our perspective and challenging our expectations.

One can discern influences from musique concrète, a genre pioneered by composers like Pierre Schaeffer, in the piece’s use of found sound and manipulation of recorded material. However, Oliveros transcends mere imitation by imbuing “An Ending (Ascent)” with her own distinct sonic fingerprint. Her deep listening philosophy permeates every aspect of the composition, from the meticulous selection of sounds to the way they are woven together in an ever-shifting tapestry.

To fully appreciate “An Ending (Ascent),” it’s crucial to approach it with an open mind and a willingness to relinquish control. Resist the urge to analyze or categorize the music; instead, allow yourself to be swept away by the sonic currents.

Here’s a table summarizing key characteristics of “An Ending (Ascent)”:

Characteristic	Description
Genre	Experimental Music
Composer	Pauline Oliveros
Year Released	1985
Album	Deep Listening
Key Musical Features	Dissonance, fragmented melodies, musique concrète influences, deep listening philosophy

The piece’s title, “An Ending (Ascent),” is both evocative and ambiguous. Does it refer to a physical or metaphorical ascent? Is the ending a point of arrival or departure? These questions remain unanswered, prompting further reflection on the nature of musical experience itself.

In conclusion, “An Ending (Ascent)” stands as a powerful testament to Pauline Oliveros’ visionary approach to sound. This challenging yet rewarding piece invites us to abandon preconceptions and embrace the infinite possibilities of sonic exploration. It is a reminder that music can transcend traditional boundaries, offering profound insights into the human experience through its ability to evoke emotion, challenge perception, and ultimately expand our understanding of the world around us.