An analysis of the work titled Tierkreis by Karlheinz Stockhausen

Tierkreis (Zodiac) was composed between 1975 and 1976 by Karlheinz Stockhausen who was one of the most important composers of the 20th century. It can be performed with any monophonic and/or polyphonic instrument. Tierkreis, which is among the best known works of the composer, consists of twelve melodies that define the character of the twelve zodiac signs. These melodies were first composed for the work titled Musik im Bauch's (Musik in the Belly) music boxes, using twelve tone technique and formula technique, on a tone zodiac formed by the central tones attributed to each zodiac sign. Later Stockhausen composed Tierkreis using these melodies. In Tierkreis, the performer is expected to improvise by making choices among different variation possibilities, and to be involved in the composition process of the work. In this sense, it is an important work within the repertoire that utilizes improvisation. Additionally, Tierkreis be considered a unique work, as it makes use of tone zodiac phenomenon and encourages the performer to improvise, thus pushing their limits as a traditional performer. This thesis aims to contribute introduction of Tierkreis to Turkey and performers and to inform them about the properties of the work and the process of practicing and performing, while presenting sample versions. In the first part of this thesis; the life of Stockhausen, his identity as a composer and major percussion works are examined. Then, in the second part of the thesis; the tone zodiac, form, style and composition techniques and improvisation used in the work titled Tierkreis were examined and the practice and performance suggestion of the work were explained with examples. Keywords: Percussion instruments, Stockhausen, Tierkreis, Zodiac, Improvisation