Introduction

When discussing the evolution of music composition in the 20th century, it becomes clear that the landscape underwent significant changes. Gone are the days of rich patrons supporting composers; instead, the 20th century presented a new set of challenges and opportunities for artists.

The Disappearance of Patrons

One of the most notable realizations is the decline of patronage. In earlier centuries, wealthy individuals or institutions supported composers through financial backing. However, by the 20th century, this system had largely vanished. Composers had to find new ways to sustain themselves and their art, often with less institutional support.

Composers and Their Times

The notion that a composer might deeply contemplate which century they were living in seems rather foreign. As an example, composers like Guillaume de Machaut lived in the 14th century and likely had no such concern. The concept of the 20th century was a modern invention that would have been irrelevant to many composers. Thus, their focus remained on the music they were creating, rather than on the time period in which they lived.

Struggle for Recognition

20th-century composers faced unique challenges, particularly in the mid-to-late part of the century. They often had to contend with the pressure from an intellectual elite to adopt contemporary compositional styles. For instance, it is told that a young composer once received advice from Priaulx Rainier, a prominent figure in music history, to write in a modern style. Despite the advice, Priaulx Rainier herself is not widely known, hinting at the limited recognition of many influential figures in the field of music.

Pressures from Institutions

In the UK during the 1970s, the BBC faced significant challenges in the realm of music. William Glock, referred to as an 'old penis' in the UK music scene, played a role in suppressing music that did not align with his conservative views. This led to a ban on pieces by composers who did not fit his narrow vision of what classical music should be. However, the tide has gradually shifted, as evidenced by recent broadcasts on BBC Radio 3 highlighting women composers like Dr. Ruth Gipps. These changes reflect a move towards more inclusive and diverse representations of composers and their works.

Modern Composition Techniques

Another significant observation is the shift in how music is composed today compared to earlier periods. Traditionally, music was composed in the mind and then written down. However, modern composition involves a more machine-assisted approach. The works often start with a pre-existing framework or even concrete sound samples, which are then manipulated through permutations and combinations.

Conclusion

The evolution of music composition in the 20th century was marked by these challenges and innovations. As the industry continues to evolve, understanding these transformations can provide valuable insights into the creative process and the sociocultural influences on music.

Keywords: 20th Century Composers, Musical Styles, Contemporay Music