Nicolas Slonimsky's Role in the Musical Modernism of the Early Twentieth Century

Abstract

The musical modernism movement of the early twentieth century began with much resistance, but blossomed into a period of inspired experimentation and development. Nicolas Slonimsky played an active role in the midst of this era. He was a composer, pianist, conductor, and writer. Examining the more personal aspects of his relationships with figures that were hallmark examples of this movement reveals Slonimsky's widespread influence. The most significant relationships that are focused on in this thesis include Charles Ives, Henry Cowell, Edgard Varèse, and Léon Theremin. To these men, Slonimsky offered great support, trusted advice, and recommendations to publishers, and he wrote beneficial articles regarding their music. He collaborated with them on their work, encouraged them, and pushed them to new heights. Nicolas Slonimsky was a champion of many musicians during his lifetime, promoting and supporting them, even at his own expense. Slonimsky made significant contributions to the developments of modern music during its growth in the twentieth century.