OSiMTA: Isabel Mundry (Zurich University of the Arts)

The musical thinking that shaped me is based on a linear and processual model of time. However, for some years now I have been increasingly interested in other forms, stimulated above all by my interest in oral cultures. There, time forms are oriented both forwards and backwards. What is remembered is evoked and unfolds in the presence of new articulations that can later be remembered again. The music that emerges is as much a trace as a progression. Using examples from my recent works, I will explain how I search for comparable forms and how they give rise to compositional and aesthetic reflections.

Isabel Mundry’s work is characterised by a unique sonic language that investigates the relationships between time, space and perception in rich, multi-faceted ways. In doing so, she creates new pathways and different realities in her compositions, which are explored through the timbre, harmony and rhythms of her nuanced music. The world premieres of recent years are works of various genres with diverse sources of inspiration, interpreted among others by Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Tonhalle Orchestra Zurich and Ensemble intercontemporain. She has been a professor of composition at the Zurich University of the Arts since 2004 and, since 2011, a professor at the University of Music and Performing Arts Munich.

Free to attend, register here. Please note that places are limited and registration closes at 10am on the day of the event.

About the series:

The Oxford Seminar in Music Theory & Analysis (OSiMTA) meets two or three times a term. Its convenors are Professor Jonathan Cross and Dr Sebastian Wedler.

Our conception of theory and analysis is critical, plural and interdisciplinary. In shaping the seminars, we aim to reflect the broad range of activity taking place under the heading of theory and analysis today, as well as to challenge boundaries, embracing not only ‘conventional’ practices, histories of theory and repertoires, but also new interdisciplinary approaches that engage with cultural studies, ethnomusicology, aesthetics and philosophy, psychology, politics, performance studies, popular music studies, and so on. Speakers include distinguished local, national and international scholars.

Seminars are open to all, including the general public. Sessions will last 90 minutes and lively discussion is encouraged. They take place on Wednesday afternoons, beginning at 16.30 UK time (currently via Zoom only).

Regular updates will appear on the main series page. You can also follow OSiMTA on Twitter.