This project aims to help forge the missing link between the accumulated and time-tested body of techniques and structures of traditional acoustic musical mediums and the striking potential of current electronic musical control systems. Through intricate computer controlled sequencing and synchronization of robotic movements, “Ensemble Robot” will produce both simple and complex patterns of sound from a variety of traditionally inspired acoustic sources. These sound sources include strings, pipes, drums and wooden keys. In this way, the orchestra will create sounds that diverge from the usual clanking and banging people generally would connect with “robot music,” but importantly shall also steer clear of attempts to imitate humans. The resultant music will appear at various times to the audience both familiar and surprising, simultaneously mining the archive of substantiated instrument architectures and musical methods available to us today, as well as progressively pushing the boundaries beyond what has ever been explored or possible before.
Ensemble Robot is a collective of artists and engineers, working together to create beautiful-sounding and visually stimulating performances, which are presented on video via the Ensemble Robot website (www.ensemblerobot.org) or performed live. We are based in Boston.
(The work Heavy Metal was created in collaboration with Ensemble Robot.) |
