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Abstract

My practice-led research investigates the conceptualisation and implementation of non-sequentialism: interactive horizontal and/or vertical structural variations of compositions that include prescribed interactions to shape bespoke musical and structural narratives. Through a portfolio of nine non-sequential compositions and the accompanying thesis this research establishes new knowledge regarding the shifting dynamics of composer, performer, and listener agency, specifically leveraging the interactive capabilities presented by modern streaming services and digital platforms.

Using a practice-led framework, the research examines how non-sequential compositional choices—such as sectional duration, instrumentation and texture, and the inclusion of lyrics—intersect with agency, interactivity, and socio-cultural factors to create unique thematic and narrative opportunities. Furthermore, it explores the collaborative tensions between the composer’s authorial intent to control the narrative and the interactor’s interpretive freedom.

This research articulates a new typology of interactive compositional formats that offer scalable agency for an ‘interactor’. This term is introduced through this research as the natural descriptor for the performer, audience, listener, or conductor, who engage with non-sequential outputs. Ultimately, the research demonstrates that while non-sequentialism enhances audience autonomy, different structural models allow composers to strategically balance authorial narrative control against greater user autonomy, offering an adaptable framework for the future of interactive music creation that reshapes the Western classical communication chain across the composer, performer and audience.

Biography

Ewan East is a composer, educator, pianist and improviser, currently completing a PhD in Music Composition at York St John University. Alongside this, Ewan is Project Portfolio Manager for community music charity, SoundLincs. Through both roles Ewan explores the relationship between music, mental health, and accessibility. Developing from Ewan’s final Masters work, Pieces of Depression—a musical representation of different symptoms of depression—Ewan aims to introduce classical music to a broader audience and enable the creativity, expression, and narratives he experienced through the genre to be accessible outside of class barriers.

Through his work at SoundLincs, Ewan oversees and designs adult and children and young people’s social prescription services, ‘through the gate’ prison programmes, and supports the strategic development of the charity. The role provides opportunity to explore broader genres and roles, building upon previous experience as a Secondary Music Teacher, Community Music Facilitator, and Lecturer.