Simpson, Diana [Composer] (2007) Pavakoothu. (Music). Score with accompanying Max/MSP patch & stereo audio file. (Unpublished)

Abstract

The word pavakoothu (puppet dance) is often used in references to Indian puppetry, particularly the practice of shadow puppetry. Consequently this piece is an exploration the act of puppetry through sound. The clarinet acts as a metaphorical 'puppeteer' within a sonic landscape which alludes to enchanted and ethereal elements. The dance of the puppets themselves is characterised by percussive sounds, and increased gestural energy towards the middle of the work At this point much of the sonic activity stems from the clarinet itself through live processing. Ultimately, all of the sound material stems from the clarinet, although this is not always apparent. The piece is characterised by the changing status of the puppeteer, the puppets, and the sonic landscape in which they exist. Traces of narrative or 'story' remain deliberately ambiguous throughout. With thanks to the clarinettists William Stafford and Thom Harrison for their assistance during the composition of this work, and to Esther Lamneck for premiering it.

Audio Downloads Metadata

1 - Pavakoothu_recording.mp3

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Item Type:	Composition
Additional Information:	Premiered by Esther Lamneck (NYU) at Manchester University Novars Launch Festival, 04 Nov 2007. Performed by Michiko Chiba at NYU Steinhardt, New York City, February & April 2008. Recorded in 2009 with Anna Hashimoto.
Research Area:	Research Areas > Music
Faculty, School or Research Centre:	Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (until 2017) > School of Performance and Screen Studies
Date Deposited:	31 Aug 2010 08:53
Last Modified:	06 Oct 2020 13:54
URI:	https://eprints.kingston.ac.uk/id/eprint/15848

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