Meaning: The quote by George Crumb highlights the significant impact of electronically synthesized sound on music following World War II. This period marked a pivotal moment in the history of music as new technologies emerged, revolutionizing the way music was created and experienced. The development of electronic music not only transformed the sonic landscape but also opened up new possibilities for composers and musicians to explore innovative sounds and compositions.

The advent of electronically synthesized sound brought about a fundamental shift in the way music was produced and consumed. Prior to this technological advancement, music was predominantly created using traditional instruments such as pianos, violins, and brass instruments. However, with the introduction of electronic synthesizers and other electronic music equipment, composers and musicians gained access to a whole new palette of sounds that were previously unimaginable. This led to the incorporation of electronic elements into various genres of music, transcending traditional boundaries and paving the way for experimental and avant-garde compositions.

One of the key aspects of electronically synthesized sound is its ability to manipulate and create new timbres and textures. Unlike acoustic instruments, electronic synthesizers offer a wide range of sonic possibilities through the use of oscillators, filters, and modulation techniques. This flexibility allowed composers to break free from the constraints of traditional tonal systems and explore unconventional sonic landscapes. As a result, electronic music became synonymous with innovation and boundary-pushing creativity, attracting a diverse range of artists and composers who sought to harness the power of electronic sound.

Furthermore, the influence of electronically synthesized sound extended beyond the realm of composition and performance, impacting the way music was recorded and produced. The advent of multitrack recording and electronic effects revolutionized the studio environment, enabling artists to experiment with new production techniques and create sonically rich and complex recordings. This transformative shift in the recording process empowered musicians to craft elaborate sonic textures and experiment with spatialization, thereby redefining the possibilities of music production.

In the realm of popular music, the rise of electronically synthesized sound gave birth to electronic dance music, synth-pop, and other electronic music genres that became synonymous with the sound of the late 20th century. From the pulsating rhythms of techno to the ethereal textures of ambient music, electronic soundscapes permeated the musical landscape, captivating audiences and reshaping the cultural zeitgeist.

George Crumb's recognition of the enormous influence of electronically synthesized sound on music in general underscores the profound impact of this technological advancement on the evolution of musical expression. As a composer renowned for his innovative approach to music, Crumb's acknowledgment of electronic sound as a transformative force speaks to the enduring legacy of electronic music in shaping the trajectory of musical creativity.

In conclusion, the advent of electronically synthesized sound after World War II ushered in a new era of musical exploration and innovation. Its influence transcended traditional boundaries, reshaping the sonic landscape and empowering composers and musicians to push the boundaries of creativity. From the experimental avant-garde compositions to the popular electronic music genres, electronically synthesized sound has left an indelible mark on the history of music, forever changing the way we perceive and experience musical expression.