The realization of extended performance practices in selected works for piano by Frederic Rzewski: a portfolio of recordings and exegesis

Abstract

This project explores through performance those aspects of Frederic Rzewski’s piano music that require ‘specific’ (that is, notated), ‘non-specific’ (left unspecified), and ‘in-between’ (implied) extended performance practices. In so doing, the project focuses on seldom-performed works that variously incorporate speech, improvisation and other unconventional practices. The study investigates the vast spectrum of interpretative challenges embedded in Rzewski’s notational style. These challenges were resolved by providing a methodology that, while specific to the works in question, also serves as a model for pianists interested in applying to other repertoire employing extended performance practices. The additional works Etude For the Beginning of Time (2013) by Snezana Nesic and ‘Ash’ Fantasie (2012), Thrashley meets Audrey (2014) and Journey to Damascus (2016) by the author, have been included to compare and understand the ambivalent aspects found in Rzewski’s piano works. The outcome comprises five CD/DVD recordings and an exegesis that incorporates input from Rzewski himself, which details and documents the interpretative possibilities of the selected works.