Rzewski in New York (1971–1977)

Abstract

The years of Frederic Rzewski's New York residency (1970–1977) constitute a rich and highly productive period, best described as a post-1968 period of musical reflection on, and exploration of, the radical aesthetic and political themes at work during his involvement with Musica Elettronica Viva (MEV) in Rome (1966–1969). Rzewski's creative output during this period must also be framed in the light of his interaction with the emerging Downtown experimental music scene. Through regular MEV performances, he helped to turn collective improvisation into a major Downtown genre and to break down the barriers between new music and jazz improvisation. Furthermore, he was at the cutting edge then in exploring the ways of integrating composition with improvisation, a practice still in its infancy in new music circles. In a signal achievement, Rzewski produced a repertoire of political compositions that effectively reach out to audiences without abandoning the ideals of the avant-garde.