INTONARUMORI Meaning and
Definition
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Intonarumori is a term used in the realm of music and experimental art to refer to a group of mechanical noise instruments or noise makers. Coined by Italian futurist Luigi Russolo in the early 20th century, intonarumori can be translated from Italian as "noise intoners" or "noise generators." Russolo believed that traditional musical instruments were limited in their ability to capture the sounds of the modern industrialized world and sought to create new instruments that would emulate the noises of the urban environment.
The intonarumori were constructed using various materials such as wood, metal, and glass, and were equipped with mechanisms that allowed for the production of unique and unconventional sounds. These instruments were designed to actively disrupt established musical traditions, aiming to shift the perception of sound and challenge the boundaries of music composition. The intonarumori often produced a cacophony of jarring, dissonant, and abrasive noises, providing a distinct contrast to melodic and harmonious elements that were prevalent in traditional music.
The invention of the intonarumori was considered a pivotal moment in the development of experimental and avant-garde music, as it opened up new possibilities for sonic exploration. Despite their historical significance, the use and popularity of intonarumori have waned over time. Nonetheless, they remain an important part of the avant-garde movement and continue to be studied and replicated by contemporary artists and researchers interested in exploring unconventional soundscapes.
Etymology of INTONARUMORI
The word "intonarumori" is derived from Italian. It is a combination of two words: "intonare" which means "to intone" or "to tune" and "rumori" which means "noises" or "sounds". "Intonarumori" literally translates to "noise intoners" or "sound tuners". This term was coined by the Italian futurist artist Luigi Russolo in the early 20th century to describe a group of experimental noise-making instruments he developed.
