Introduction

Niles Luther, a 27-year-old cellist, has embarked on an innovative journey as the Brooklyn Museum’s first composer-in-residence. His mission? To create original scores that complement and enhance the museum’s exhibitions, starting with Hiroshige’s 100 Famous Views of Edo, featuring Takashi Murakami.

Expanding the Boundaries of Art Music

Luther introduces the concept of “Art Music,” a genre that he believes should accompany visual art in galleries and museums. Departing from traditional definitions, Luther aims to anchor compositions of high phonoaesthetic value within visual art objects, enriching the viewer’s experience.

Drawing Inspiration from Tradition

For the exhibition, Luther collaborated with traditional Japanese instrumentalists to merge Western European classical tradition with Japanese musical practices prevalent during the Edo period. His compositions respond to prints by Utagawa Hiroshige, infusing the exhibit with a unique auditory dimension.

A Journey into Composition

Luther’s journey into composition began at the Kehinde Wiley Studio, where he served as musical director. Initially recording cello for art film installations, Luther’s collaboration with Wiley sparked his passion for composing. His experiences with Wiley cultivated a new musical vocabulary, focusing on scoring still images rather than moving ones.

Acknowledging Influence

Luther credits Kehinde Wiley for shaping his artistic voice and providing the opportunity to explore beyond the confines of the Western canon. The composer expresses gratitude for Wiley’s mentorship, which laid the foundation for his current practice.

Support from the Ford Foundation

Funding for Luther’s residency comes from the Ford Foundation, known for its contributions to the arts and cultural development. The foundation’s support underscores the significance of Luther’s endeavor in advancing the intersection of music and visual art.

Exploring Art Music’s Potential

Throughout his residency, Luther plans to engage museum visitors through live performances, recorded music on the Bloomberg Connects app, and immersive audio installations. His goal is to elevate Art Music onto the global stage, emphasising its role in enhancing the viewing experience of art.

Conclusion

Niles Luther’s residency at the Brooklyn Museum marks a significant step in the integration of music and visual art. By pioneering the genre of Art Music, Luther seeks to redefine the relationship between sound and image, enriching the cultural landscape for years to come.

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