Christopher Catone

Christopher Catone is a composer, pianist and organist who has written works for both acoustic and electroacoustic settings. His music is concerned with the relation of traditional pitch concepts to non-pitched electronic elements, such as noise Often regarded with a minimalist approach, Catone uses simple, sometimes exceedingly thin textures, representing his chiaroscuro aesthetic. His style frequently employs long, evolving sections to illustrate his interest in time-varying timbres and the stark juxtapositions of sonic events. In his most recent work, Improvisations (2008), it is evident that the tonal material relies heavily on its respective timbre and register to create a unique collage of similar, yet varied sounds. The tape piece, Voci di Motivo, shares a similar character. Utilizing pre-recorded vocal samples, the composer applies his idea of juxtaposition in the relationship of dense, untreated "clouds" of text and processed singing tones. He has also expressed interest in the music of Spain and the Middle East. Displayed in pieces like Filter Out and Eastern Influence, his manipulation of both standard and microtonal tunings is described as "primal, organic" and "other-worldly." 
Catone has a varied approach to his acoustic writings.  Composing various pieces for cello, violin, flute, voice and piano, he continues to maintain his roots in tonal harmony but has pushed the envelope of modern instrumental composition by pairing complex sonorities with rhythmic simplicity. His balance of vague tonalities and heightened gesture has been called, "elegant, beautiful and ethereal."

The composer is currently turning his attention towards mixed works incorporating acoustic and electronic instruments. A new piece for flute and electronics will be premiered at Northeastern University's Concert of Digital Artists (CODA) in April. A new work for solo piano will also receive its debut at this performance. 

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Filter Out (tape) Mp3