Songs of Ascension by Meredith Monk

     The creative image of Meredith Monk was formed in the context of avant-garde art of the late 1960s, in an era of artistic revolution, marked by the emergence of postmodernism. In her original compositions the traditions of minimalism are given a new definition, which, in conjunction with the non-European principles of traditional music (folklore), created an artistic platform for Monk's creativity.

     Songs of Ascension by Meredith Monk struck me with its originality and mysteriousness. It almost put me into a light trance, since all the musical instruments with unusual vocals make you feel as if you were teleported into a different universe.

     The symbolics of a tower with two spiraling staircases suggests the structure of DNA, and, in my opinion, the setting always plays a very important role. Monk's composition implies spiritual ascension, giving us an impression of an ongoing ritual, although it does not refer to any specific religion. What was also interesting is that the language used in Monk's pieces is her own invented language, which enhances the sense of mystery. For me personally, her vocalizations seem to be quite odd and unusual, creating a little discomfort and the atmosphere of madness to some extent. However, I believe it is only the first impression, since my ears are not used to this kind of music.

     The song as a form of musical communication has become for Meredith Monk a necessary element that can equalize all ethnic differences, a universal way of communication between different ethnic groups and races. Maybe, this explains the composer's ability to subtly feel the heterogeneity of American culture, uniting all its diversity in a song.

     In Songs of Ascension, more clearly than in other works of Meredith Monk, a hypnotic state of trance and repetitions are manifested, which is characteristic of minimalism. It is because until the early 2000s, she worked in the field of instrumental music, using the instrumental part as a kind of foundation on which to build a technically complex vocal line. Therefore, Monk most often strives for the simplification of the instrumental texture in her compositions, using elements of repetitive technique and rhythmic patterns.

     In relation to the music of Meredith Monk it is difficult to speak about referring to any particular national vocal tradition, but rather the author seeks to create a universal style that sends our imagination back to archaic cultures. The study of non-European music contributed to the formation of the composer's idea of the revival of an ancient ritual, which is the foundation for the entire musical and dance tradition.
The truly feminine sophistication of vocal music, combined with exquisite experimentalism, provides a growing interest in Monk's personality every year, both from the public and from outstanding musicians, choreographers, artists, sculptors, who wish to to participate in the creation of new intercultural projects together with Meredith.