In the twentieth
century, Le Corbusier
and Iannis Xenakis forged
an entirely new alliance
of sounds and buildings.
Xenakis was not only a pupil of the brilliant Swiss architect, but also a composer. In this role he introduced the Modulor system of proportions, with which Le Corbusier wanted to optimize architecture for human dimensions, into serial music.
For the World Expo in Brussels
in 1958 they jointly conceived
the Philips Pavilion.
String glissandi
in graphical notation
were transformed
into the curves, points
and tangents of a
roof structure that is
both perplexing and
fascinating.
The intention was that visitors should perceive the curved concrete shells above paths and spaces like music. Inside the pavilion a bold electronic composition was replayed in an endless loop.