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What global music influenced Messiaen?

  • Indonesian gamelan

  • African drumming

  • Indian raga

  • Chinese opera

Answer

Indonesian gamelan, with its intricate rhythms and shimmering timbres, profoundly influenced Messiaen's musical style. He incorporated gamelan-inspired patterns into his compositions, such as the "Mode de valeurs et d'intensités" in "Quartet for the End of Time," where each note has a specific duration and intensity. Gamelan's emphasis on layered textures and interlocking rhythms also resonated with Messiaen's interest in creating complex and immersive musical experiences.
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