The Well-Tempered Synthesizer cover

The Well-Tempered Synthesizer

Wendy Carlos · 1969

48 min · 14 tracks · electronic

A groundbreaking fusion of classical compositions and innovative electronic soundscapes created using early synthesizers.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic exploration of soundscapes
  • wave-like pacing with peaks
  • thoughtful headphone detail hunting
  • curious minds seeking innovation

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer straightforward structures
  • avoid lengthy experimental pieces

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1969, 'The Well-Tempered Synthesizer' was Wendy Carlos's debut album and marked a pivotal moment in her career as she transitioned from traditional music to electronic experimentation. This album followed her work on the soundtrack for 'A Clockwork Orange', solidifying her role as a pioneer in electronic music.
Stylistic neighbors
Isao Tomita· Klaus Schulze· Jean-Michel Jarre

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Orfeo Suite 3:22
  • 2 Sonata in G major, L. 209/K. 455 1:42
  • 3 Sonata in D major, L. 164/K. 491 3:54
  • 4 Water Music: Bourrée 0:48
  • 5 Water Music: Air 2:46
  • 6 Water Music: Allegro deciso 3:01
  • 7 Sonata in E major, L. 430/K. 531 1:55
  • 8 Sonata in D major, L. 465/K. 96 2:30
  • 9 Brandenburg Concerto no. 4, BWV 1049: I. Allegro 8:05
  • 10 Brandenburg Concerto no. 4, BWV 1049: II. Andante 3:36
  • 11 Brandenburg Concerto no. 4, BWV 1049: III. Presto 4:46
  • 12 Domine ad adjuvandum (from the 1610 Vespers) 2:21
  • 13 Stereo Alignment Tones 0:10
  • 14 Well‐Tempered Experiments 9:07

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata