"Strange Attractors" for orchestra

In mathematics, a strange attractor is a self-referencing, dynamical system which evolves over time into a subtle, complex pattern. It walks a fine line between complete regularity and utter chaos, never repeating itself exactly but always cyclically haunting the same paths. Like these transient mathematical forms, the instrumental lines in Strange Attractors possess contours, shapes, and melodies which recur in recognizable patterns throughout the piece, yet never twice repeat themselves in the same way---they are ever changing, evolving, and expanding. The individual musical elements---such as the opening motif of the piccolo and celesta, the asymmetrical rhythmic pattern of the winds and strings immediately following, as well as the descending figure found in the violas and cellos at the conclusion of the first climax---together provide a dynamic and organic whole which is esthetically greater than a simple linear addition of their parts.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Music

Level thesis:degree_level

Masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Music

Grantor

Rice University

Year dc:date.issued

2010

Author dc:creator

• Bryant, Alexandra Tyler

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Gottschalk, Arthur W.

• Music

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright is held by the author, unless otherwise indicated. Permission to reuse, publish, or reproduce the work beyond the bounds of fair use or other exemptions to copyright law must be obtained from the copyright holder.

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/1911/62028

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:repository.rice.edu:1911/62028