This solo piece for soprano and electronics explores the sonic qualities of various languages, engaging in a dynamic dialogue with sound transformations. Inspired by Entwurzelt—a 2012 composition for six singers and electronics—the work seeks to uncover expressive depth in an unfamiliar language.
Musical shapes emerge as dramatic gestures, a recurring theme in many of my recent works. Syllables are drawn from diverse sources and arranged according to their acoustic characteristics rather than their semantic meaning. The close interaction between the soprano and the electronics invites the listener to interpret and imagine meaning.
The electronics serve to extend the soprano’s vocal expression, enrich harmonic structures, shape intricate sound textures, and occasionally introduce unexpected elements.
This composition uses a Max/MSP patch to generate the electronic sounds. The download includes a Max 8 project with all required libraries.
As the singer's hands are engaged in creating gestures near her mouth, the electronic events are triggered using a foot pedal.
An iPad running the MIRA application can be used to provide visual feedback on the current electronic event to the singer.
For optimal balance, the electronics should be played through two small, high-quality loudspeakers placed on the floor behind the performer, angled upwards. This setup allows the electronic sounds to blend naturally with the soprano’s voice, avoiding the sensation that they originate directly from the speakers.