From Western Esotericism to Eastern Awareness: A Shift in Music & Mysticism

From Western esotericism to Eastern awareness: a shift in music and mysticism in the 20th century, a talk with Fahad Siadat

an exploration of our evolving relationship with the phenomenon of music as a sacred and mystical experience from Pythagoras to John Cage and beyond

The 20th century saw a fascinating evolution in the relationship between music and mysticism, shifting from a primarily Western, hermetic/alchemical/magical perspective to one deeply influenced by Eastern concepts of perception, consciousness, presence, and awareness. This shift was propelled by pioneering artists who integrated these new ideas into their musical practices, and the influence continues to evolve in contemporary music.

This lecture looks at the primary principles of Western music from an esoteric perspective, how it evolved over the centuries, and the radical changes in musical philosophy during the post-modern 20th Century in America. We’ll look at writing and listen to composition examples from key artists in the 20th Century, including John Cage, Terry Riley, Le Monte Young, and Pauline Oliveros, as well has how musicians are continuing to evolve those ideas in the 21st Century.

Fahad Siadat creates interdisciplinary pieces exploring the intersection of creative and spiritual practices that “border on being a spiritual journey” (LA Dance Chronicle). His work is described by the press as “evoking wonder, desire, and terror” (Off Broadway), “hypnotic” (Backstage) and having “a sophisticated harmonic vocabulary” (San Diego Story).Fahad is the director of the Resonance Collective, a multifaceted organization which explores and expands our definition of sacred music. He is also the director and singing member of LA’s premiere new music vocal ensemble HEX, an award-winning sextet described by the LA Times as “a luminous ensemble of singers”.Fahad maintains a robust performing and recording schedule and has performed as soloist with such groups as LA’s groundbreaking opera company The Industry, and the Grammy Award-Winning ensemble PARTCH, as well as on recordings for artists such as Daniel Lentz and WildUp.Fahad is regularly commissioned to compose for concert music ensembles, dance companies, and theater troupes including: Theater Dybbuk, Rosanna Gamson Dance, Monmouth University, Jacksonville Dance Theater, the California EAR Unit, and the TOCCATA Orchestra. His music has been performed in Europe, China, and across the United States.To hear his work visit www.fahadsiadat.com

main image: John Cage, Fontana Mix, 1958.

Tickets: $12 (in-person and online tickets available)

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The views, opinions, and thoughts expressed within exhibited works are solely those of their creators and may not represent those of the Philosophical Research Society (PRS), its affiliates, or any individuals associated with PRS. Screenings are intended for educational and entertainment purposes.

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