Teaching

ICHONAUTICS
A Musical Philosophy and Compositional/Improvisational Approach

Ichonautics (from the ancient Greek words ήχος íchos, meaning "sound", and ναυτική nautikē, meaning "navigation") is a musical philosophy and compositional/improvisational approach developed by composer Dorian Wallace that aims to unlock and expand one’s mental space for creative expression and discovery. This approach is open to everyone including professionals, conservatory trained, self-taught musicians, and amateurs.

Recent residencies/lectures
The Juilliard School, Columbia University, New York University, Universidad de Costa Rica, Interlochen Center for the Arts, University of Hartford, SUNY Purchase, Montclair State University, Capital University, and Kent State University.

Basic Outline
Part I: Focus

1. The Contemplative:
   1. Meditation
   2. Dreamwork/Active Imagination
   3. Psychonautics
2. The Explorer: Spontaneous Improvisation
   1. Discovery
   2. Experimentation
   3. Exploration
3. The Scientist: Observations
   1. Experiences
   2. Punction
   3. Perception
   4. Loudness
   5. Timbre
   6. Sonic Texture
   7. Spacial Location
   8. Noise
   9. Soundscape

Part 2: Knowledge

1. The Scholar: Studying the Fundamentals
   1. Rhythm and Time
   2. Pitch, Harmony, and Melody
   3. Notation
   4. Form, Structure, and Duration
   5. Lyrics, Text, and Language
   6. Choreographics and Theatrics
2. The Artisan: Developing Skills
   1. Nuances and Traditions
   2. Transcribing, Imitation, and Arranging
   3. Groove
3. The Psychologist: Accompanying and Soloing
   1. Expression and Communication
   2. Collaboration
   3. Adaptability
   4. Selfless Support

Part 3: Wisdom

1. The Philosopher: Profound Thinking
   1. Simple vs Complex
   2. Influence vs Propaganda
   3. Existence, Aesthetics, Values
2. The Wayfinder: Cosmic Immersion
   1. Exploration
   2. Experimentation
   3. Discovery
3. The Master
   1. Focus
   2. Knowledge
      
   3. Wisdom

For inquiries (lessons, masterclasses, and guest artist residencies) please contact me here.
Please do not teach this approach without written consent from Dorian Wallace.