What is the definition of found music?

Found music, also called musique trouvée, is music created by using or incorporating pre-existing sounds or recordings into a new composition or work of music. Found music can be created from any source, including field recordings, radio broadcasts, interviews, conversations, and even musical performances. It can involve the sampling, editing, and collage of existing audio material to create something entirely new.

The term "found music" was popularized by the composer John Cage in the 1950s. Cage's work often involved the use of chance operations and unconventional sounds, and he frequently incorporated found sounds into his compositions. Other composers and artists who have used found music include Pauline Oliveros, William Basinski, Christian Marclay, and David Behrman.

Found music can take many different forms and can be used in a variety of genres, including experimental music, ambient music, electronic music, and pop music. It is a creative technique that allows artists to explore the potential of existing sound sources in new and innovative ways.