Ann Cleare
on magnetic fields
version for two violins and one loudspeaker
(2012)Duration | 15' |
---|---|
Commission | Commissioned by Das Wittener Tage für neue Kammermusik 2012, Westdeutscher Rundfunk Köln (WDR, West German Broadcasting Cologne) |
Technical requirements | • Max/MSP 5: the electronics for the piece comprise pre-recorded sound files triggered from a Max/MSP patch. To obtain a copy of this patch, please contact the composer – anncleare@hotmail.com • A computer that can run Max/MSP 5 or Max/MSP 5 Runtime • One large loudspeaker (or smaller if large is not available) • Low-latency audio interface such as a RME fireface 10 or an equivalent • Two microphones for violin amplification If a violinist is triggering the sound files, the following is also required: • Sustain foot pedal (for trombonist to trigger electronics, not necessary if assistant is triggering from computer with space bar). For example, Futar VFP1. Interface (for example, M-Audio KR-25/02) for foot pedal to MIDI conversion |
Publisher | PSNY |
Media
Original version for chamber ensemble
Program Note
on magnetic fields presents three separated sonic entities: what is thought of as two kinetic whirlwinds represented by the solo violinists, each oblivious to each other, and each moving through their own temporal evolution, and, at the centre of the stage, what is thought of as ‘a box of light’, formed by electronics triggered from one loud speaker.
Each violin begins at a very different state of evolution: the violin to the left beginning in a state of silver haze, and the violin to the right beginning from a state of grey matter, exposed and struggling to find enough electricity to bring its electric voice to life.
At the middle of the stage lies a loudspeaker, a contrasting sonic composite that can see both whirlwind ensembles at work. Thought of as a piercing, alien, light, the loudspeaker is a mysterious force that has the power to intervene in the unstoppable temporal processes of the violinists, both protecting and leading these parallel universes to moments of communication and realisation.
- Ann Cleare