Date of Birth: August 10, 1934
Zodiac Sign: Leo
Date of Death: August 24, 2006
Biography
James Tenney was an American composer, music theorist, and pioneer in computer music. Born on August 10, 1934, in Silver City, New Mexico, Tenney’s career spanned several decades, during which he explored a wide array of musical styles and techniques. He was deeply influenced by the works of John Cage and Iannis Xenakis, and he became known for his experimental and innovative compositions. Tenney studied at the University of Denver, where he received his Bachelor’s degree in 1958. He furthered his education at the Juilliard School, studying under prominent figures such as Chou Wen-chung and Edgard Varèse. His interest in electronic music led him to work at Bell Telephone Laboratories, where he collaborated with Max Mathews and other pioneers of computer music. Throughout his career, Tenney taught at various institutions, including the Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn, the California Institute of the Arts, and York University in Toronto. His influence extended to his students, many of whom became notable composers and musicians in their own right. Tenney’s compositions often incorporated mathematical concepts and theories, exploring the boundaries of sound and perception. His notable works include “For Ann (rising),” “Clang,” and “Postal Pieces,” among many others. He also authored influential texts on music theory and acoustics, further cementing his legacy in the world of contemporary music.
5 Interesting Facts about James Tenney
1. James Tenney was a pioneer in the field of computer music, working at Bell Telephone Laboratories in the 1960s.
2. He studied under the influential composer Edgard Varèse at the Juilliard School.
3. Tenney’s work often explored the application of mathematical and acoustical principles in music.
4. He was a dedicated educator, teaching at institutions such as the California Institute of the Arts and York University.
5. His composition “For Ann (rising)” is considered one of his most notable works, embodying his exploration of gradual processes in music.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from James Tenney
1. “Music is, after all, an experience of sound in time.”
2. “The composer’s job is to create the conditions for an experience, not to dictate the experience itself.”
3. “I am interested in the perceptual and cognitive aspects of music – how we hear and understand it.”
4. “The boundaries of music are not fixed; they are continuously being redefined.”
5. “Every sound has an inherent musicality; it is up to us to discover it.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
James Tenney’s highest net worth achieved was estimated to be around $1 million.
Children
James Tenney had no known children.
Relevant Links
1. [Wikipedia: James Tenney](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Tenney
2. [IMDb: James Tenney](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0855075/
3. [AllMusic: James Tenney](https://www.allmusic.com/artist/james-tenney-mn0000123811
4. [Discogs: James Tenney](https://www.discogs.com/artist/168986-James-Tenney
5. [York University Tribute](https://www.yorku.ca/gradmus/james-tenney/
