Misuse as Creation in Electronic Music - A History and Practical Suggestion by August Norborg

In this thesis the author explores the term ”misuse” as a methodology of composition, but also proposes to view it as an informal tradition within the history of electronic music. The author explores the possible definitions of the term ”misuse”, proposing to view it as an inherently destabilizing practice, where the practitioner must reject the defining of a strict identity. The author also highlights the shift away from mastery of technology to a more equal, exploratory relationship that occurs within the practice, as well as its ability to chart the materiality of said practice. The author proposes that this tradition re-occurs historically as both a technical, aesthetic and philosophical phenomenon, serving as a progressive force within the wider genre of electronic music and often as part of a consciously rebellious practice. The author explores how this methodology can be applied within their own contemporary compositional practice using the software Ableton Live, chronicling their own explorations of generating sound via different misuses of the software, including sound examples. Finally, the author evaluates the applicability of this method on their own artistic practice through 2 attached compositions, and gives testimony to their experience and insights working with the material.

A Short Note on Improv

While ending up being slightly outside the scope I managed for this project, I have begun developing an improvisational performance practice using my different methods for misuse.
In it I have developed several approaches. One is that certain methods will generate long lasting sounds, which will morph based on how you change their settings. Exploring in these directions is beneficial. It is important here to practice it like an instrument, especially as many methods have the potential to generate both sudden extremely loud sounds and sudden complete silence. The ability to perform well therefore also comes naturally with ones practice of misuse developing.
Finally, the abundance available in modern software should be taken full advantage of. Multiple tracks can contain several different setups, and this can be a mix of both pre-recorded material and different improvisational setups. Here, creative use of spacing out material and turning tracks on and off with automation can render a clever framing for live performance.

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August Norborg - Misuse as Creation in Electronic Music - A History and Practical Suggestion - 2022