Question

composer john cage is noted for incorporating the i ching, an ancient chinese divination text that contains a symbol system for identifying order in chance events, into his compositional process. he composed the work music of changes (1951) using the i ching as a tool for introducing randomness into decisions about pitch, rhythm, and dynamics. cages method, known as \chance operations,\ reflected his broader interest in indeterminacy—the idea that certain elements of a composition are left open to chance or to the performers interpretation. this novel technique allowed aspects of his works to remain free from his own will, challenging traditional notions about the role of the composer.
which choice best states the texts main idea about composer john cage?
choose 1 answer:
a he developed an innovative approach to composition that embraced randomness and reduced the composer’s control over musical decisions.
b he maintained traditional musical structures while incorporating his personal preferences into his compositions.
c influenced by the i ching, an ancient chinese divination text, his work music of changes leaves certain decisions about pitch, rhythm, and dynamics open to chance or interpretation.
d he collaborated heavily with performers in composing his musical works, allowing their interpretations to inform his decisions about pitch, rhythm, and dynamics.

Explanation:

• Option A: The text says Cage used "chance operations" (innovative approach) with randomness, and his works had elements free from his will (reduced composer control), matching the main idea about his compositional approach.
• Option B: The text states he challenged traditional notions, so he didn't maintain traditional structures, and his work used chance not personal preferences, so B is wrong.
• Option C: This describes a specific work's details, not the main idea about Cage's approach to composition overall.
• Option D: The text says elements were open to chance or performer interpretation, not that he collaborated with performers to inform his decisions, so D is wrong.

Answer:

A. He developed an innovative approach to composition that embraced randomness and reduced the composer’s control over musical decisions.