Module: CMT6003-20 Sonic Performance

Level: 6

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Ben Ramsay

Module Tutor Contact Details: b.ramsay@bathspa.ac.uk

1.Brief description and aims of module:

This module presents a critical awareness of aesthetic and practical skills in electronic/digital audio performance and improvisation. You will learn contemporary performance practices experientially by engaging in one or more of the following; electroacoustic improvisation, live electronics, multichannel diffusion, live performance artist (LivePA).

The module aims to enable you to:

• Explore performance instruments and/or systems – software, hardware, and electronics

• Explore sonic ‘languages’ in live performance and improvisation

• Experience techniques and strategies for collaborative, ensemble and solo performance

Live projects will enable opportunities to work in performance groups and/or collaborations to explore creative possibilities with students from other disciplines within the university where appropriate.

2.Outline syllabus

The following topic areas will be covered on the module:

• Historical and current perspectives on liveness, mediated audio and controllerism

• Live electroacoustic improvisation and group performance

• Multichannel performance and fixed media diffusion

• Stem based and live performance artist techniques

3.Teaching and learning activities

The module will be delivered as a combination of lead lectures, seminars, small group work and performance labs. You will be guided towards the development of a performance plan through seminars and peer performance sessions as well as prototyping the final performance.

Self-directed study and live performance development will lead to rehearsals and peer assessed ‘micro’ performances.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Performance

• % Weighting: 80%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Development Blog (including audio/visual egs)

• % Weighting: 20%