In the mid-to-late 1960’s, a new approach to composition was on the rise, now known as minimalism. Repetition was favored over structure, meditating on and slowly morphing through rhythm and melody.
Steve Reich was a pioneer within the minimalist scene, writing staple pieces such as Its Gonna Rain, Music for 18 Musicians, and Music for Pieces of Wood. Contemporary artist Dan Deacon draws heavily from minimalism, and bears a very similar approach to rhythm and overall soundscape. Listen to “USA III: Rail” off of the 2012 album America (Known to contain around 60 violin tracks), as well as Steve Reich’s 1976 piece, Music for 18 Musicians.
Past and Present is TAVIK's way of paying homage to the musicians that may have been forgotten, but continue to inspire us today. In each installment we take music from earlier generations and compare it to the songs they influence today.