The Feminine in Singer-songwriter Music: On Agency, Vulnerability, and the Right to Wear Flowers in our Hair

Presenter Information

Autumn Burnett, Oberlin College

Location

Science Center, A142

Document Type

Presentation

Start Date

4-24-2015 2:45 PM

End Date

4-24-2015 3:45 PM

Abstract

By drawing upon techniques from the avant-garde and folk traditions, Joni Mitchell and Joanna Newsom have coincidentally garnered cult-like devotion of a few and the aversion of many. In this study, I examine the use of “difficult” technique in terms of high vocal tessitura, harmonic complexity, polymodality, and lyrical density. I also consider the presence of traditional “folk” tropes and how they interweave with elements of the avant-garde. These performers, I suggest, incorporate the avant-garde features in their work in order to transcend previously established reputations.

Notes

Session 2, Panel 13 - The Grain of the Voice: Feminist Reconsiderations of Fairy Tales, Birthing Practices, and Semi-popular Music
Moderator: Afia Ofori-Mensa, Director of the Office of Undergraduate Research

Major

Musical Studies

Advisor(s)

Charles McGuire, Musicology

Project Mentor(s)

Ian MacMillen, OCREECAS

April 2015

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS
 
Apr 24th, 2:45 PM Apr 24th, 3:45 PM

The Feminine in Singer-songwriter Music: On Agency, Vulnerability, and the Right to Wear Flowers in our Hair

Science Center, A142

By drawing upon techniques from the avant-garde and folk traditions, Joni Mitchell and Joanna Newsom have coincidentally garnered cult-like devotion of a few and the aversion of many. In this study, I examine the use of “difficult” technique in terms of high vocal tessitura, harmonic complexity, polymodality, and lyrical density. I also consider the presence of traditional “folk” tropes and how they interweave with elements of the avant-garde. These performers, I suggest, incorporate the avant-garde features in their work in order to transcend previously established reputations.