Xenakis' Metastasis: A Chaotic Symphony of Textural Density and Ethereal Soundscapes

“Metastasis,” a groundbreaking composition by the Greek-French composer Iannis Xenakis, stands as a testament to his innovative approach to electronic music. Completed in 1953-54 for the Philips Phonotape studio, this masterpiece employs the then-novel technology of tape recording and manipulation to create a sonic landscape unlike anything heard before.

Xenakis, who studied engineering and architecture alongside music, was deeply interested in mathematical principles and their application to sound. His approach to composition was often described as “stochastic,” meaning that it relied on chance and probability rather than traditional musical structures. In “Metastasis,” this manifests itself through the dense layering of sounds, each manipulated independently to create a constantly shifting texture.

The piece begins with a barrage of electronically generated tones, resembling metallic scrapes and clangs. These are overlaid with processed vocalizations that evoke an eerie sense of disembodiment. As the composition progresses, Xenakis introduces rhythmic patterns, but these are irregular and unpredictable, constantly breaking down into new configurations. The effect is one of perpetual motion, a swirling vortex of sound that challenges traditional notions of melody, harmony, and rhythm.

Deconstructing “Metastasis”: A Deeper Dive into its Structure and Techniques

Xenakis employed several innovative techniques in “Metastasis,” pushing the boundaries of what was possible with electronic music at the time:

• Tape Manipulation: He used tape loops, recording and splicing sections of sound to create new textures and rhythms. By varying the playback speed and direction of the tapes, he could manipulate the timbre and pitch of the sounds, resulting in a wide range of sonic possibilities.
• Granulation: Xenakis divided recorded sounds into tiny fragments (grains) and rearranged them randomly, creating complex and constantly evolving textures. This technique allows for the creation of dense, layered sound worlds that defy easy categorization.

• Mathematical Algorithms: Xenakis’ background in engineering influenced his approach to composition, utilizing mathematical formulas to determine the arrangement and manipulation of sounds. This contributed to the unpredictable yet strangely coherent nature of “Metastasis.”

The Legacy of Xenakis and “Metastasis”

“Metastasis” was initially met with mixed reactions. Some listeners found its harsh and unconventional sounds unsettling, while others were captivated by its originality and sheer power. Over time, however, the piece has come to be recognized as a seminal work in electronic music history. It paved the way for future composers to explore the possibilities of sound manipulation and challenged traditional notions of musical structure.

Today, “Metastasis” is frequently performed and studied, serving as a source of inspiration for generations of musicians and sound artists. Its influence can be heard in a wide range of genres, from experimental electronic music to contemporary classical music and film scores.

Xenakis’ groundbreaking work continues to resonate with listeners who are drawn to its chaotic beauty and ethereal sonic landscapes. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of innovation and experimentation in music.

Exploring Xenakis Further: A Guide for Curious Listeners

• Listen: Start by immersing yourself in “Metastasis.” Allow yourself to be swept away by its unique soundscapes and explore the complex interplay of textures and rhythms.

• Read: Delve into writings about Xenakis’ life, his compositional techniques, and the context of his work within the broader history of electronic music.

• Experience Live Performances: If possible, attend a live performance of “Metastasis” or other Xenakis works. The experience of hearing this music in a concert setting can be truly transformative.