ABSTRACT
The idea of networks has obvious import for communication in the internet age. Networks provide a means of conceptualizing, and understanding, music as communication. Discussion concerns the musical, semiotic and philosophical relationships – potential, imagined and realized – that might be perceived in the listening experience of Du cristal (1989– 90). The evocative power of 'crystal' enables a wealth of information to be communicated at the very opening moment of Du cristal. Homogenous solid body of chemical element, compound or isomorphous mixture having a regular atomic lattice arrangement that may be shown by crystal faces. In accordance with Kaija Saariaho's predisposition towards cross-sensory experiences, a useful metaphor for the overall listening experience offered by Du cristal is that of watching crystallization. There are inharmonic and arhythmic elements in Saariaho's music, however, and this could give rise to the argument that timbre is actually its most important unifying feature.
