Study no. 4
Performance Instructions
for 5 instrumentalists and score-derived electronics.
The animated score contains 5 concentric rings, each with one rotating attack cursor. Player 1 follows the largest ring, player 2 the 2nd largest, etc. The score also contains 5 rotating attack lines, each with a small circle on the end. The center staff should be read as a treble staff. Octave displacements are permissable.
When a player's attack cursor crosses an attack line with a black circle on the end, play a single short note or short phrase, using one or more of the pitches displayed in the ring's center.
When a player's attack cursor crosses an attack line with a white circle on the end, play a sustained note using one of the pitches displayed in the ring's center.
When playing a phrase, the maximum number of notes is indicated by the number above the staff.
When a player's attack cursor crosses the attack line with the red circle, play an F# in any register. This may be played long or short, but must end before the attack cursor crosses the next attack line.
While a player's attack cursor is flashing, improvise freely.
The relative size of a player's attack circle determines dynamic level, from PP to F. Sustain lengths and playing techniques should vary often.
The piece ends approx. 1 minute after the concentric rings have have disappeared, and all players' attack cursors are flashing. At this point the projector should be covered and the score application quit. The electronics will fade out shortly thereafter.
The Max/MSP patch included with the score should be opened and activated before the score has begun, and should continue to run for the duration of the piece.
The score should be projected in full view of the players and audience.
Duration: Approximately 5-6 minutes.
Ryan Ross Smith, November 2011.
If you would like a copy of this animated score for performance, or have any questions about the animated notation used in this piece, feel free to get in touch! My contact information can be found here.
