Cornelius Cardew Books

Cornelius Cardew was an English experimental music composer who transitioned from avant-garde idioms to politically motivated People's Liberation Music. He co-founded the experimental Scratch Orchestra and, after studying at the Royal Academy of Music and assisting Karlheinz Stockhausen, his creative output became deeply intertwined with his political commitments. Cardew's work, particularly after the demise of the Scratch Orchestra, reflected his dedication to Marxist-Leninist principles, culminating in his involvement with revolutionary communist parties. His artistic journey demonstrates a profound shift towards music serving a socio-political purpose.