Fragile Objects
Fragile Objects, 2016, live performance, mixed media (Max/MSP, mixer, amplifier, contact microphone, MacBook, iPad with Lemur app, transducers, found metal), 5 minutes.
Fragile Objects is a project created by Charlotte Nugent and Andrew Rahman using a laptop running Max/MSP, BCF2000, mixer, amplifier, contact microphone, iPad with Lemur app, and transducers connected to Speaker-Sculptures. The sound is generated using a Bell/Bass Resonator and Additive Synthesizer (Synth) in Max. These two sounds are the basis of expression of the instrument manifested by two different hand gestures on the iPad. The Resonator is triggered by tapping the iPad, creating a percussive sound and the Synth by a centroid between multiple fingers. The Lemur displays an X/Y coordinate system, X is pitch, Y controls the Synth’s vibrato length. The sliders on the BCF display the harmonic overtones of the Synth and the sound of their movement is picked up by the contact mic on the BCF. A “Shimmer” effect–created by Andrew Rahman–is applied to the contact mic, and is controlled by the knobs on the BCF. All sound is broadcast through the Speaker-Sculptures by a transducer attached to them. The two hanging speakers are in stereo with Left transmits the Synth and the Right transmits the Resonator. The freestanding speaker plays all sounds in mono and the contact mic transmits through all of the sculptures. The basic goals of the instrument were to address questions of improvisation and interaction between computer and performer. Fragile Objects premiered at the Berkeley Art Museum on April 8, 2016 during the Right Now concert, as part of a performance with the Berkeley Nu Jazz Collective.
Andrew Rahman, B.A. Music (2017)