The first iteration of my live project consisted of an improvisation based group performance.
This was intended to showcase a sophisticated level of inter communication between members, in terms of dictating the movement and progression of the music. However this was incredibly challenging, as we did not foresee the limitations and constraints of trying to communicate with each other non verbally whilst playing at the same time. Methods we considered to help dictate structure included pre arranged structures and utilising Brian Eno’s oblique strategies
A primitive example of this iteration is shown here:-
Shortly after this I disbanded this project and shifted attention towards incorporating content from my dissertation studies, which centre around exploring the relationship between music cognition and quantum mechanics theories. This iteration was to be presented in a talk/lecture style format whist also incorporating presentation visuals. The first iteration of this project was a practical demonstration called the “Wigner’s chord experiment”. I intended this to both informative, engaging and though provoking. This performance can be seen here
As is notable by the considerable period of q&a/ debate at the end, I considered this iteration to have succeeded beyond my expectations in its ambition to engage an auidience and provoke further thought and generate constructive criticism.
The next iteration consisted of a presentation of the quantum mechanics concepts concerned as well as a section regarding possible “spooky entanglement” with musical resolutions. However I felt, retrospectively, that the presentation style was cold and overtly technical, lacking the engagement and intrigue of the first presentation.
The next iteration of this project consisted of a talk regarding the classic conditioning concept and its relevance to quantum mechanics and music cognition. I intended to incorporate more engaging visuals in this iteration as well as making the content appeal to a wider audience by presenting it in a “cat vs dog” format (which is easier to relate to and appreciate than using specialised language).
As a result of the iteration process, I intend for my final performance project to consist of a 30 minute talk/lecture on the subjects in question, maintaining a level of intrigue and accessibility throughout. This presentation will include visuals where appropriate as well as including a q&a session to give an opportunity for engagement and discussion with an audience. This section in particular I feel is essential for further developing skills in the areas of communicating ideas and addressing criticism in an understandable and coherent way.
tomhayesmusic 