Chrónos and Kairós in electroacoustic music

In this article we’ve analyzed some time concepts, applying them to a selection of electroacoustic pieces of different aesthetics.

Some differences are pointed out: between hors-temps and en-temps with specific application to the repertoire; the relationship between χρόνος (Chrónos) and καιρός (Kairós) and their influence on the compositional experience and on the approaches used to analyze electroacoustic pieces.

The fact that acousmatic music is characterized by a sufficient degree of abstraction with reference to the more traditional musical parameters, does not lead us to the conclusion that the management of time cannot be also considered at an analytical level.

We’ve cited the Obst’s Crystal World cycle as an emblematic case. In this cycle time and its management are important on a multidimensional scale: this leads us to make further considerations on analytical techniques, their limits and their possible developments.

Other references concern the musical repertoire by J. Adams; J. Alvarez; F. Bayle; F. Donatoni; J. Harrison; R. Minsburg; M. Rodrigue and others.