sacred minimalism

English era

Definition

A term applied to a style of late 20th-century composition — associated with Pärt, Górecki, and Tavener — characterised by extreme simplicity of means, slow tempos, an absence of developmental complexity, and an explicitly spiritual or contemplative character.

Interpretive Guidance

Resist any impulse to add expressive urgency or drama. Sacred minimalism asks for stillness and an inward, meditative focus in which every note carries full weight.

Context

Scope Contemporary era term
Era Contemporary
Language English

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