The magic of electronic handicraft
Nowadays, you can buy a lot of electronic gadgets, music software and computer applications, but it is even more fun to build them yourself. This do-it-yourself mentality especially prevails among North American composers. Since the 1960s, they craft their own synthesizers, music computers and electronic effect machines. Because of this, electroacoustic music gets a typical, magical shine which is totally geared to the fantasy of the composer. In this episode of Theme, we hear rarely played music of some of these American craft-eager music pioneers, among whom the composers David Behrman, Jerry Hunt, Chris Brown and John Driscoll. This summer, work of John Driscoll has been released on vinyl for the first time, on the Dutch label Slowscan.
Playlist
1. The Hub: ‘Untitled: Live in Het Apollohuis, Eindhoven, 7 maart 1992’ on Apollo and Marsyas: Het Apollohuis 1980-1997; An anthology of new music concerts. The Hub (computers and live electronics). Apollo Records 090217-18 CD
2. David Behrman: ‘Runthrough’ (1967-1968), for DIY synthesizers and photocell mixers, on David Behrman: Wave Train. Sonic Arts Union (ensemble) Alga Marghen plana-B 5NMN.020 CD
3-4. David Behrman: ’Interspecies Smalltalk, part 1 + 2’ (1984), for violin and computer system, on David Behrman: Leapday Night. Takehisa Kosugi (violin) + computer (David Behrman). Lovely Music LCD 1042 CD
5-9. Chris Brown: ‘Some Centre’ (2019), for voice, cello, oboe, piano and computer system, on Chris Brown: Some Centre. The Chromelodia Project (ensemble). New World Records 80822-2 CD
10. Jerry Hunt: ‘Bitom (stream): link’ (1991), for pianos, cow’s horns and electronics, on Jerry Hunt: Ground, five mechanic convention streams. Jerry Hunt (incl pianos + electronics). O.O. Discs #9 CD
11. Jerry Hunt: ‘Cantegral Segment 18.17’ (1976-1977) for DIY mechanical and electronic instruments, on Jerry Hunt: Lattice. Jerry Hunt (electronics). CRI Records 713 CD
12. John Driscoll ( picture ): ‘Wafer Flats’ (1985) sound installation for loudspeakers + ultrasonic and electronic instruments, on John Driscoll: Ghostly Agents. John Driscoll (installation and electronics). Slowscan vol. 50 LP
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