reading blog #2
- Claire Aguilar
- Dec 19, 2023
- 1 min read


John Cage was not only an innovator and experimenter but also a composer and performer. His performances, notably the piece 4'33, resulted in a range of emotions, be it positive or negative. While this composition was ostensibly about "silence", Cage asserted that true silence does not exist. Instead, his performances, including those of others, served as demonstrations of the ambient noise constantly present in our surroundings. During these performances, some audience members would leave, while others reserved their critiques for the following question and answer sessions. A few individuals embraced the atmosphere, perhaps wishing it could persist beyond the designated 4'33 duration. Similar to this piece, Cage composed many works that provoked emotional responses, challenging the public to reconsider the definitions of music and art. This prompted a shift in people's understanding of music and their approach to listening. Cage's approach to art extends beyond musical considerations, advocating for the acceptance of sounds as they are. This perspective beautifully blurs the lines between art and life, emphasizing that art is inherent in every aspect of life. Cage's insistence on letting sounds simply be sounds encourages a new appreciation for the fusion of art and daily existence. He aimed to break boundaries and fostered a desire for individuals to view the world from fresh perspectives. Personally, I find the innovation exciting. He opened up a whole new world for this niche artistic medium. Cage's path of resistance ultimately led to success, serving as a powerful reminder that belief in oneself can overcome challenges and pave the way for individual greatness.
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