"Role of Timbral Transformation in the Electroacoustic Works of Kaija Saariaho"
Emma Lippert, Wichita State University

Composer Kaija Saariaho was well known for her diverse catalog of electroacoustic compositions. In her works, she created musical tension by using a methodology called sound/noise axis, in which she thought of timbral change as a superior developmental parameter to those such as harmonic function. In this presentation, I will discuss the role of timbral transformation through my analysis of Saariaho's NoaNoa, reference her sound/noise axis methodology, and incorporate and build upon elements from Michael Clarke's interactive aural analysis approach. I argue that timbral transformation is the leading developmental parameter used in electroacoustic music, indicated by the capabilities of electronic synthesis and works within the repertoire.