Reject the Natural, Become Mechanical

Abstract Reject the Natural, Become Mechanical is a seven-movement suite composed for jazz orchestra. Inspired by the grand world-building tradition of speculative fiction writers and filmmakers, Reject the Natural, Become Mechanical explores a compositional process based on world-building and the communication of narrative metaphors through music. The suite is centred around two fictional worlds and the narrative theme of transformation as one world becomes the other. Each world is inspired by contrasting imagery and music. The ‘Organic Planet’ is a natural world teeming with life, while its antithesis, the ‘Mechanised Planet’, is a world-sized machine that seeks to control and transform all life to preserve it. The two worlds represent contrasting ideals that are explored through the music.

This project aimed to apply the vast imagined worlds and childlike wonder of fantasy and science fiction works to the compositional processes. This exegesis examines how music interacts with narrative metaphors through programmatic music, concept albums and musical world-building in films and video games.

While the specific semantics of the world-building and narrative themes aided the compositional process, understanding them is not a prerequisite for the enjoyment of this music. Instead, the intention is for the listener to gather their own interpretation of the narrative. Reject the Natural, Become Mechanical aims to tap into music's storytelling possibilities to create rich and unique worlds within the listener’s mind to deepen the listening experience.