[Electronic Music] [Berio, Luciano. (1925–2003) & Ligeti, György. (1923–2006) & Ussachevsky, Vladimir. (1911–1990) & Takemitsu, Toru. (1930–1996) & Belson, Jordan. (1926–2001) & Maderna, Bruno. (1920–1973) & Ferrari, Luc. (1929–2005) & Badings, Henk. (1907–1987)]
"Vortex 5" - Original 1959 Electronic Music Program
Original program from the fifth of the experimental electronic music "Vortex" concerts, dated January 12-27 [1959], with works by Berio, Ligeti, Ussachevsky, Takemitsu, and others. The series of concerts took place from 1957 to 1959 in the Morrison Planetarium in San Francisco "to explore the esthetic possibilities of technological developments in auditory and visual media," and featured elaborate lighting and visual effects directed by Jordan Belson, and sound projected from 38 loudspeakers. With a minimalist block image of a sunburst on the cover; 4 pp. Light toning and a few small pen marks on the program listing; overall in fine condition. 7 x 7 inches (17.8 x 17.8 cm)."The elements of Vortex are sound, light, color, and movement in their most comprehensive theatrical expression. These audio-visual combinations are presented in a circular, domed theater equipped with special projectors and sound systems. In Vortex there is no separation of audience and stage or screen; the entire domed area becomes a living theater of sound and light... The premiere of Vortex on May 28, 1957 to a capacity audience established this audio-visual experiment as a true theater of the future with a potential for directly reaching an audience with unique sensory experiences not based on the customary story, music, or entertainers. Vortex is direct. There is no age, linguistic nor aesthetic barrier to experiencing Vortex." (Program notes for Vortex 4, cited in Curtis Roads: Composing Electronic Music: A New Aesthetic.) (13343)
Program, unsigned Classical Music