Michael Cooke

On February 28th, 2009, the San Francisco Composers Chamber Orchestra (SFCCO) premiered String Theory, a unique guided improvisation composition. This piece uses a graphical score inspired by the revolutionary branch of theoretical physics known as string theory.

String theory is a groundbreaking concept in theoretical physics that aims to reconcile quantum mechanics and general relativity into a unified quantum theory of gravity. It posits that all particles and forces in the universe are composed of tiny, vibrating strings. These strings, though initially considered one-dimensional oscillating lines, can also be conceptualized in terms of points or surfaces.

String Theory p.13

In my composition, I employ graphical notation to represent these strings, points, and surfaces, guiding the orchestra through improvisation. The piece culminates in a unification, symbolizing how string theory might eventually prove Einstein’s unified field theory, creating an elegant universe composed entirely of the music of strings.

One of the most exciting aspects of using guided improvisation as a compositional technique is that each performance is distinct, yet the overall composition remains recognizable. To illustrate this, I have recordings from both the dress rehearsal and the concert performance of String Theory for comparison.

Dress Rehearsal

Concert Performance

Tags: saxophone

This entry was posted on Tuesday, March 3rd, 2009 at 5:46 pm and is filed under Composition, Guided Improvisation, Orchestral. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.