Extended Techniques
Introduction
Extended techniques refer to unconventional methods of playing musical instruments to produce unique sounds and timbres that are not traditionally associated with those instruments. These techniques have become increasingly popular in contemporary music, particularly in the genres of avant-garde, experimental, and contemporary classical music. Extended techniques can involve modifications to the instrument, alterations in playing style, or the use of external objects to create new soundscapes.
Historical Context
The exploration of extended techniques began in earnest during the 20th century, as composers and performers sought to expand the sonic possibilities of traditional instruments. This movement was influenced by the broader cultural shifts of the time, including the rise of modernism and the desire to break free from established norms. Composers such as John Cage, Henry Cowell, and George Crumb were pioneers in this field, experimenting with new ways to manipulate sound.
The use of extended techniques can be traced back to earlier periods, such as the Baroque era, where composers like Heinrich Biber employed scordatura, a technique involving the retuning of string instruments. However, it was not until the 20th century that these techniques became a central focus in composition and performance.
Techniques for String Instruments
String instruments, such as the violin, viola, cello, and double bass, offer a wide range of possibilities for extended techniques. Some of the most common techniques include:
Col Legno
Col legno, meaning "with the wood" in Italian, involves striking the strings with the wood of the bow rather than the hair. This produces a percussive, dry sound that contrasts with the traditional bowed sound. Composers like Gustav Mahler and Igor Stravinsky have utilized this technique in their orchestral works.
Sul Ponticello and Sul Tasto
Sul ponticello refers to playing near the bridge of the instrument, resulting in a metallic, glassy sound. Conversely, sul tasto involves playing over the fingerboard, producing a soft, ethereal tone. Both techniques are used to create contrasting textures and moods within a composition.
Harmonics
Harmonics are produced by lightly touching the string at specific points, creating a high-pitched, flute-like sound. Natural harmonics occur at fixed points along the string, while artificial harmonics are created by pressing the string with one finger and lightly touching it with another. This technique is frequently used in both solo and ensemble settings.
Techniques for Wind Instruments
Wind instruments, including the flute, clarinet, saxophone, and trumpet, also offer a variety of extended techniques. These techniques often involve alterations in embouchure, air flow, and fingerings.
Multiphonics
Multiphonics involve producing multiple pitches simultaneously on a wind instrument, creating a complex, dissonant sound. This technique requires precise control of the embouchure and air stream and is often used in modern compositions to add harmonic richness.
Flutter-Tonguing
Flutter-tonguing is achieved by rolling the tongue while playing, producing a rapid, tremolo effect. This technique is commonly used in jazz and contemporary classical music to add texture and excitement to a performance.
Circular Breathing
Circular breathing allows wind players to produce a continuous sound without interruption for breath. This technique involves inhaling through the nose while simultaneously pushing air out through the mouth, enabling performers to sustain long phrases and create uninterrupted soundscapes.
Techniques for Percussion Instruments
Percussion instruments, with their inherent versatility, are particularly well-suited to extended techniques. These techniques often involve unconventional methods of striking, scraping, or manipulating the instruments.
Prepared Percussion
Prepared percussion involves altering the instrument by adding objects such as coins, paper, or other materials to the surface. This changes the instrument's timbre and resonance, allowing for a wider range of sounds. Composers like John Cage have famously used prepared percussion in their works.
Bowed Percussion
Bowed percussion involves using a bow, typically from a string instrument, to play percussion instruments such as cymbals, gongs, or vibraphones. This technique produces sustained, eerie tones that contrast with the instrument's usual percussive nature.
Extended Mallet Techniques
Extended mallet techniques include using unconventional mallets, such as brushes or rubber balls, to strike percussion instruments. These techniques can produce a variety of sounds, from soft, muted tones to sharp, piercing attacks.
Techniques for Keyboard Instruments
Keyboard instruments, such as the piano and organ, have also been subject to extended techniques. These techniques often involve direct interaction with the instrument's strings or other internal components.
Prepared Piano
Prepared piano involves placing objects such as screws, bolts, or rubber between the strings of a piano. This alters the instrument's sound, creating a variety of percussive and resonant effects. John Cage was a pioneer of this technique, using it extensively in his compositions.
String Plucking and Strumming
String plucking and strumming involve directly interacting with the strings of a piano, either by plucking them with the fingers or strumming them with a plectrum. This technique produces a harp-like sound and can be used to create unique textures within a composition.
Inside-the-Piano Techniques
Inside-the-piano techniques involve manipulating the strings or other internal components of the piano to produce unconventional sounds. This can include muting the strings with the hands, striking them with various objects, or using the fingers to create glissandi.
Techniques for Vocalists
Vocalists have also embraced extended techniques, exploring new ways to manipulate the human voice to create a wide range of sounds and effects.
Overtone Singing
Overtone singing, also known as throat singing, involves producing multiple pitches simultaneously by manipulating the vocal tract. This technique is used in various cultural traditions, including Tuvan throat singing and Mongolian throat singing, and has been incorporated into contemporary music.
Vocal Fry
Vocal fry is a technique that involves producing a low, creaky sound by relaxing the vocal cords. This technique is often used in contemporary music to add texture and depth to vocal performances.
Extended Vocal Techniques
Extended vocal techniques encompass a wide range of methods for producing unconventional vocal sounds, including growling, screaming, and whispering. These techniques are often used in genres such as experimental music and avant-garde music to push the boundaries of traditional vocal performance.
Impact and Influence
The exploration of extended techniques has had a profound impact on the development of contemporary music. By expanding the sonic possibilities of traditional instruments, composers and performers have been able to create new and innovative soundscapes that challenge conventional notions of music. This has led to the emergence of new genres and styles, as well as a greater appreciation for the diversity and versatility of musical expression.