Performance
Automated accompaniment
This is possibly the first
thing that comes to mind when mention is made of computers in terms of
performance. This might lead us to expect that the performance would be
arid and mechanical. While it is perfectly true that the use of some
software would restrict the options for expressive performance, other
programs can be used to produce results more akin to the recording of
real-time backing tracks. They have (musical) benefits over and above
real-time recordings, however, because the performer can alter the
performance data to suit his/her own interpretation. They allow a
player of modest accomplishments to get some idea of what it is like to
play in a symphony orchestra, jazz band, string quartet, etcetera.
A beginner seldom has the
opportunity to perform with real musicians. Using computerized
accompaniments, tempi can be slowed down, or speeded up, at will. If
the performer is playing a tune in a simpler transposition, the
accompaniment can be suitably adjusted. Parts for which real-time
performers are available can be muted. These facilities are
particularly helpful for students with special needs but they have the
potential to enrich the experience of all.
Providing accompaniments is just one of many ways in which ICT can facilitate and enhance performance. Others include:
- replicating some of the experiences met with in ensemble playing,
for students who would not, otherwise, have access to this important area of musical activity.
- widening performance experience
by facilitating involvement in unfamiliar styles of playing and new
'sound-worlds'. For example, it is now possible to find good quality
synthesized versions of many ethnic instruments. Digital instruments
facilitate exploration of more unusual tuning systems.
- making alternative instruments available
to those who cannot play conventional instruments, for whatever reason,
enabling performers to play, musically, with a minimum of physical
effort.
- facilitating the production of customized scores for use by those who cannot, for whatever reason, read from those generally available. (See 'Inclusion' section for examples.)
- manipulating sounds with microphones and effects units to add a new dimension to the performance
- enabling recorded performance
- facilitating assessment
(and this is, perhaps,
technology's most significant contribution) permit the separation of
intrinsically musical performance skills from considerations of
physical strength and coordination
Explore ICT in performance at these sites:
The Full Pitcher Music Resources
www.fullpitcher.co.uk
a publisher specialising in
resources for creative and inclusive music-making, including the
GridPlay software packages, developed according to principles discussed
on this website.
Soundbeam
www.soundbeam.co.uk
"exhilarating opportunities for music composition and live group music- making, with the invisible, expanding keyboard in space"
Expressive Software Projects
http://www.espmusic.co.uk
ESP specialises in Music
Software and Hardware for PC, Mac and Acorn. Their aim is to make music
more accessible using technology as a tool.
MIDIcreator
The new home of MIDIcreator, a
versatile device that allows users to create music, in a variety of
ways, with movement sensors and switches. A range of switches for
disabled access is available from the same source.