UC San Diego

This dissertation documents my use of the extra-musical provocations in two compositions: my music theater piece be/longing for two percussionists and At the Edge of Violence and Silence for thirteen instruments. The first work is about the emotional and physical interactions between two performers. The second piece explores the fine line between violence and silence and consists of three movements. Both compositions illuminate life experiences that I have found intriguing. be/longing reflects my experience as a housewife and At the Edge of Violence and Silence was inspired by a Japanese Butoh dance performance. An essay that outlines my methods in employing these extra-musical provocations is included as a preface to the works that follow the essay in the form of musical scores