For the purposes of this post I’ll place Carman Moore in the Western classical tradition, since that’s where his training is (Ohio State and Julliard). But his music draws on a wide range of traditions.
Since roughly the beginning of the 20th Century composers in the Western tradition have had the problem of creating music that was new and aesthetically compelling while at the same time accessible to a relatively large audience. Satisfying the last condition has all too often meant sacrificing newness. About a quarter of a century ago the so-called minimalists appeared to have made a breakthrough, Philip Glass in particular.
Moore’s approach is more interesting. His music is readily accessible to a wide range of people. Extensive study is not required, nor do you have to buffer your ears against an assault of aural weirdness, though some of that does show up as a bit of spice in the mix.
But Moore’s music is not at all minimal. He uses whatever means is necessary, melodic, harmonic, rhythmically, or sonically. Further, he restores dignity and control to the performer. The performer is no longer enslaved to the score. Improvisation is important in Moore’s music.
I’d like to hear Moore score a motion picture. And not an art film, though that would be fine as well. I think he’d do a smashing job on a Hollywood feature film. Anyone have Coppola’s phone number?
Here's a review of a recent performance of Moore's music, performed by the Skymusic Ensemble and conducted by Moore.
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