SOUND/BODY
(2023)
author(s): Petar Mrdjen
published in: Research Catalogue
“My sound body is the ghostly embrace that physically envelops the listener, with acoustic energy. Feel my presence, as I hide in plain sight.”
This exposition explores the role of surround sound in filmmaking, its strength and pitfalls in space-making, as well as its viability as an image-making device.
The author challenges conservative usage of surround sound, advocating for a playful and resistant approach; with the aim to create active and immersive spatial soundscapes where each audience member can experience their own "sweet spot." They reflect on the limitations of traditional cinema sound and express their desire to empower listeners with a dense and rich auditory experience.
By focusing on capturing authentic acoustic spaces, challenging traditional recording practices, and exploring a resistant approach to surround sound; the author highlights the unique relationship between sound, image, and space; and how their interplay can evoke various impressions.
The text delves into the author's artistic approach to working with surround-scapes (surround-soundscapes), highlighting different strategies and providing examples from films and games. Three surround-aesthetics are defined and named, which the author refers to as "rooms." The transformative power of sound is underscored, with a focus on embracing vulnerability and fluidity as sources of strength.
Through the context of foley-practice and surround-scaping; this exposition questions the role and reach of the author's body - a sound body.
A brief history of the drum machine
(2023)
author(s): Hafsteinn Davidsson
published in: Research Catalogue
This article explores the history of drum machines and their impact on music production. It covers the early developments of drum machines in the 1930s with the Rhythmicon and the Chamberlin Rhythmate. It then discusses the introduction of programmable drum machines like the EKO ComputeRhythm and the Roland CR-78 CompuRhythm. The article highlights the revolutionary impact of the Roland TR-808, known for its distinctive bass drum and clap sounds. Sample-based drum machines, such as the LinnDrum LM-1 and LM-2, are also discussed, along with the pivotal role of the MPC3000 in popularizing sampling and sequencing. The article examines the legacy of drum machines, including the concept of quantization and the unique timing and grooves popularized by J Dilla. It concludes by acknowledging the enduring appeal of physical drum machines in a digital age and the ongoing influence of drum machines on music production.
Storytelling in improvisation-based composition: a classical flute player's experience with experimental music
(2023)
author(s): Catalina Popa-Mörck
published in: Research Catalogue
This master thesis is a documentation of a journey towards self-discovery and artistic development which took place during my two years as a NoCom (Nordic Master for the Composing Musician) student at the Academy of Music and Drama in Gothenburg, Sweden.
In the Research Catalogue pages I have gathered ideas, reflections, analysis, experiments, scores and audio/video material that, I feel, surmise the work I have done during my studies. However, beyond the tangible elements offered, I believe this content tells the story of my process towards coming into my own practice.
With the goal of using the creative and performative tools at my disposal (that stem from my background as a classical musician with a passion for rock/metal music and live electronics) in order to facilitate storytelling through my compositions and a better communication with the audience, I present to you my journal as I go through this process, told in the frame of a fairy tale.
Double Bass in the spotlight
(2023)
author(s): Joost Slootbeek
published in: Research Catalogue
A short presentation for the subject "Historical Development" meant to excite a general audience about the double bass in different classical music scenarios.
RNDR M3 4S (1) 0F UR AVATAR GRLS*
(2023)
author(s): AMUSED
published in: Research Catalogue
This thesis is aimed at investigating virtual embodiment and how it can affect a performer's experience of; and relationship to the physical body. With this auto ethnographic case study I hope to shed some light on the ways virtual reality technology enables critical experiences and what effects these experiences could have, through my own personal journey. The study was conducted in the setting of my home using a Pico 4 VR head mounted display and HTC vive full body tracking. The project used for the case study was an audiovisual pole dance performance that was performed on the platform Neos VR and streamed to Studio 44 in Stockholm. The research is rooted in the artistic field but draws knowledge from psychological and social research on VR as a cognitive and embodied technology. The research methods used to gather and analyse the research material were visual research, phenomenology and deep listening. The data collection consisted of visual and text based data. On the visual data I applied thematic analysis, coding and categorising of the text based data and analysing hyper reflections with a phenomenological approach. I found that the experience of virtual embodiment did change my relationship to my own body in a positive way by feeling more grounded and accepting. I was less anxious about performing and felt more confident in myself. Because of the entanglement of the study it was not possible to solely contribute the outcomes of the effect to virtual avatar embodiment in itself. It did however demonstrate how these VR technologies could be used to enable norm critical experiences by the use of norm critical design applied to avatars challenging beauty ideals and societal norms of performativity. My virtual embodiment and its effects on me can give a unique insight that would benefit developers and users active in these platforms as well as for personal introspection and self development. The study serves as a good base to build future research on and I intend to further elaborate on the extensive research data that was gathered.