An engaging demonstration took place at noon today under the intriguing title "Impossible Music," held at the Tufts University Art Gallery. The event showcased compositions by Conlon Nancarrow, a composer whose work I had previously encountered only in recorded form but never experienced live. Central to the performance was a modified baby grand piano, equipped with a player mechanism. This century-old instrument, restored to pristine condition, played rolls that steadily moved across the tracker bar. A small yet captivated audience of about twenty observed both the mechanical intricacies and the mesmerizing sounds produced—sounds no human pianist could replicate.

The origins of my fascination with this composer trace back to 1962 when his name surfaced among other New World experimentalists like Acario Cotapos. Prompted by curiosity, I questioned my mentor Milton Babbitt about Nancarrow, who surprisingly revealed a long-standing friendship with him. Interestingly, their paths diverged due to Nancarrow’s involvement in the Spanish Civil War, which later led to his relocation to Mexico for four decades following political pressures in the USA. His eventual return saw him celebrated anew, even leading to a German monograph on his music.

Nancarrow dedicated much of his career collaborating with mechanical engineers to adapt standard player-piano mechanisms into tools capable of producing complex rhythms through specially punched rolls. One etude presented today featured a steady two-part counterpoint where intricate patterns unfolded as one part gradually slowed while another accelerated, culminating in perfect synchronization before reversing roles. Such creations have been described as "unbelievable sounds," reflecting their groundbreaking nature.

For those intrigued by this unique musical experience, there is an opportunity to attend another iteration at the Tufts Art Gallery scheduled for April 4 from noon to 12:30 p.m. This demonstration serves as a delightful reminder of how innovative techniques can redefine traditional boundaries within art forms.

This report aims to share the joy and discovery experienced during this remarkable event. It invites others to explore the fascinating world of Conlon Nancarrow's compositions, celebrating the intersection of technology and creativity that defines his legacy. Through such demonstrations, audiences gain insight into the enduring impact of experimental music pioneers who challenge conventional norms and inspire future generations.