Schaeffer, Boguslaw (Julian)

views updated

Schaeffer, Boguslaw (Julian) (b Lwów, 1929). Polish composer, mainly self-taught, and pianist. First comp. 1946 in neo-classical style but with atonal leanings. Wrote atonal chamber mus. 1946–8. First composer in E. Europe to use 12-note system for orch. work (Nocturne, 1953). In 1955 discovered noteless composing of mus., e.g. in Study in Diagram for pf. (1955–6) only intervals, directions of linear motion, and articulations are used. In 1958 wrote Tertium datur with geometrical constructions written in graphical notation. Since 1959 his orch. scores have all been for unusual combinations of instr. Has written several jazz comps. since 1962 and elec. pieces since 1964. Many of his works inspired by paintings and literature. Uses ‘synectic’ method of comp., i.e. performers themselves decide what they understand by special signs and graphics. Has written books on new mus. (1958, 1969), Sounds and Signs (1969), and Introduction to Composition (1976, Eng. trans.), and is also a successful playwright. Comps. incl. works for stage; 10 syms. (1960–79); 3 pf. concs.; 2 hpd. concs.; 2 vn. concs.; concs. for various other instrs.; 6 str. qts. (1954–73); 2 str. trios; pf. trio; sax. qt.; vocal works; comps. for jazz ens.; many kbd. pieces.; works for elec., some with tape.

About this article

Schaeffer, Boguslaw (Julian)

Updated About encyclopedia.com content Print Article