Jeff Pressing: His Master's Voice (1990-93)

Abstract

"This work is for two solo performers: live voice, and vocal samples triggered and controlled by two MIDI keyboards. These samples are generated by an Akai sampler and signal-processed in realtime by a Max program written by Jim Sosnin and the composer. One keyboard selects the pitch of the samples to be played, and the other selects the processing type and parameters in the chosen processes. The vocal sounds focus on extended vocal techniques, ethnic borrowings, harmonic reinforcement, and phonetics of an imaginary composed language. The intention is to create a dialogue between live performer and samples, with the computer acting as a third agent. In formal terms, the piece is in three contiguous parts: the first is linear and abject; the second busy, variegated and whimsical; and the third is a codetta based on part one. This recording is of the live performance by the composer at the 1993 International Computer Music Conference in Tokyo, Japan." -- Jeff Pressing