Description:

Michael Pisaro, from the California Institute of the Arts, talks about avant-garde music. Avant-garde music has become a tradition in the United States. Pisaro explains that contemporary music involves other sounds besides traditional orchestral instruments. He shares that that area of music has a lot of potential. It has hardly been explored. Pisaro also points out that avant-garde music speaks to the educational environment. It actively questions what music is and what it can be. Also in this segment, he discusses teaching contemporary music. As a teacher, he attempts to identify students' interests. Sometimes training gets in the way of true creativity. Pisaro also shares why he enjoys being a composition teacher. He is able to learn from his students and share his opinions. One of the main reasons students seek out Cal Arts is covered as well. Students come because the school allows avant-garde music to take place.