Applications of chaos theory and fractal geometry in the music of Gyorgy Ligeti

Abstract

In addition to incorporating various constructs from western and non-western music, 20th-century composer Gyorgy Ligeti utilises non-musical influences within his music. One such extra-musical source is the scientific field of chaos theory and fractal geometry. Three compositions that display qualities associated with this scientific field include Atmospheres , the Fourth Movement of the Konzert fur Klavier und Orchester, and Etude pour piano, No. 17, "A bout de souffle". Analysis and re-analysis of these works by the use of rhythmic and post-tonal theory will demonstrate the presence of elements associated with this field within his music. To enhance these findings, primary sources located at the Paul Sacher Stiftung in Basel, Switzerland will be examined. In conjunction, these three elements will show that the form and structure of the said works contain and display influences of this non-musical paradigm.