Technologies of Hypnagogia: Altered Perception and Religions in Avant-Garde Electronic Music
Religions March 5, 2026 DOI: 10.3390/rel17030324 (opens in new tab) via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractTwentieth-century avant-garde composition often fused technological advances with shifts in religious consciousness. This work argues that composers such as John Cage, Pierre Schaeffer, Pauline Oliveros, Alvin Lucier, Eliane Radigue, and William Basinski offer a valuable lineage for studying the intersection of religion and sound or music.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Perception Consciousness Element criminal law Intersection aeronautics Electronic music |
| Key finding | Argues that the lineage from John Cage through William Basinski provides a compelling addition to the study of religion and sound/music. |
Abstract
One important element of twentieth-century avant-garde composition is the intersection between advances in technology and transformations in religious consciousness and experience. This piece argues that the lineage from John Cage through Pierre Schaeffer, Pauline Oliveros, Alvin Lucier, Eliane Radigue, and William Basinski make for a compelling addition to the study of religion and sound/music.