Subj: Re: Nancarrow             Area: 0-rec.music.maker   Date: 04/26/95
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•gratz@ite121.inf.tu-dresden.de (Achim Gratz) wrote:
>
[...]
> From the little I have heard of his music, MIDI is probably not
> capable of reproducing his work.  At least not with standard
> equipment.  And, you _need_ a mechanical piano.
>

Depending on the sequencer's resolution, MIDI is perfectly capable of
duplicating the rhythmic complexities of Nancarrow's music.  I myself
sequenced his study #19 with complete accuracy (at least, I defy anyone
to notice any rhythmic differences between my sequenced version and
Nancarrow's).  In fact, if your sequencer has such features as "Scale
Time" or "Scale Tempo's", then you can sequence one of his scores in MUCH
less time than it took Conlon to hand punch it.

However, there is no denying that even the best MIDI sequence won't hold
a candle to the sound of Nancarrow's modified player piano's.  Get
Wergo's 5 CD set and it'll blast your mind.

Last I heard Nancarrow is still alive but in poor health.

Phil