research
Research Student at Goldsmiths College, University of London
Thesis: Live Electronics In Live Performance (Performance Practice)
Development of interactive music systems and the evaluation of such computerised extension of instruments in performance.
Interactive computer systems extending the possibilities of conventional instruments. This implies a conceptualisation of instrumental design and techniques. The focus on the instrument rather than the musical results (concepts of composition) in preparation of the musical activity is a crutial step towards the development of new performance practices incorporating new technologies.
The setting of improvised music offers an invaluable terrain of research in such fields. Improvised music requires the highest degrees of spontaneity, adaptability, and flexibility from the used instruments. Furthermore instruments are being explored and pushed to their limits. In stark contrast to the compositional counterpart, improvised music cannot rely on a lengthy process of preperation to generate a specific sound. Process of preparations available to compositions incorporating instruments (as well as players) for specific use to produce a specific sonic outcome (e.g. A box with glass to be shattered).
The piano+ is the amalgamation of a spontaneous performance system with the acoustic piano.
Following recordings are from a concert given as part of the PhD at Goldsmiths, University of London, on the 23rd March 2009.
Sebastian Lexer - solo (piano+)
Frederic Blondy (pno), John Edwards (db) & Sebastian Lexer (piano+) plus 'audience participant'
Frederic Blondy (pno), John Edwards (db) & Sebastian Lexer (piano+)
recordings by Rick Campion