Meaning: This quote by Tony Conrad, an influential artist and musician, encapsulates his approach to sound and composition. It emphasizes the idea that the essence of music lies not in indeterminacy or immediacy, but in the deliberate control of sounds within one's environment. Furthermore, Conrad highlights the process of composition as a long-term cultivation of interests within the complex realm of sound.

Tony Conrad was a prominent figure in the avant-garde music and art scenes, known for his innovative contributions to minimalism, drone music, and experimental filmmaking. His work often challenged traditional notions of art and music, exploring the boundaries of perception and the relationship between creator, audience, and environment.

When Conrad speaks of the "control of sounds right there in your environment," he is advocating for a heightened awareness of the sonic elements that surround us. This perspective aligns with the principles of field recording, a practice that involves capturing environmental sounds to be used in musical compositions or sound art. By acknowledging the potential for musical inspiration in everyday sounds, Conrad encourages us to consider the sonic landscape as a rich source of artistic material.

The notion of "long-term growth of interests within that sound complex" speaks to Conrad's view of composition as an evolving and deeply personal endeavor. Rather than conceiving of composition as a series of discrete, isolated works, Conrad suggests that it is an ongoing process of exploration and development. This approach aligns with the ethos of minimalism, which often emphasizes gradual transformation and prolonged engagement with musical material.

In his own artistic practice, Conrad exemplified these principles through his groundbreaking work in drone music. Embracing sustained tones and gradual harmonic shifts, drone music eschews traditional notions of melody and rhythm in favor of immersive, meditative soundscapes. Conrad's influential album "Outside the Dream Syndicate," recorded with the band Faust, exemplifies his mastery of this form, showcasing the hypnotic power of sustained tones and subtle sonic modulation.

Furthermore, Conrad's work in experimental filmmaking also reflects his fascination with the manipulation of sound and image. His film "The Flicker" is a seminal work of the structural film movement, employing rapid, stroboscopic editing to create a mesmerizing visual and auditory experience. Through this film, Conrad demonstrates his ability to harness the sensory impact of sound and image in a manner that challenges conventional narrative forms.

In conclusion, Tony Conrad's quote encapsulates his distinctive perspective on sound, composition, and artistic growth. By emphasizing the importance of controlling sounds in one's environment and viewing composition as a long-term exploration, Conrad encourages us to reconsider our relationship with sound and the creative process. His pioneering work in minimalism, drone music, and experimental filmmaking continues to inspire artists and musicians seeking to expand the boundaries of sonic expression.