The Witness
The Witness (1989) written by Pauline Oliveros is "A solo duet with an imaginary partner, a duo or an ensemble" composed in 1989. The structure of the piece consists of three strategies for listening and responding with guidelines for the use of the strategies: This establishes changing relationships among the players, going from individual to collective actions within a sound continuum.
Pauline Oliveros (1932-2016) was an American composer, accordionist and a central figure in the development of post-war experimental and electronic music. Oliveros authored books, formulated new music theories, and investigated new ways to focus attention on music including her concepts of "deep listening" and "sonic awareness"
In 2021, the PSU Laptop Ensembles performed two versions of The Witness. A version was performed with no audience by the advanced laptop ensemble in Spring 2021 (documented by filmmaker Lee Dunn) and a second version was performed in Fall of 2021 by the laptop ensemble with a film by PSU School of Film Experimental Production.
Spring 2021 Performance by the Advanced Laptop Ensemble at Davinia Farm. (Film by Lee Dunn)
Field Recordings at Horning Seed Orchard (April 2021)
Spring 2021 Rehearsals
Fall 2021 Performance by the Laptop Ensemble with visuals by PSU Experimental Film
Fall 2021 Laptop Ensemble members included Engraver Arnold, Gabe DeFrank, Haley Mulvihill, Jack McDonald, James Hickey, Jessy Mina, Joshua Sedgwick, Justin Chacon Reyes, Leif Baker, Lex Garcia, Michael Mentler, Nic Nipp, Patrick Rowley, Raul Cueto, Ryan Elliott, Sam Stringer, Travis West, and Zach Schleiker
Fall 2021 Experimental Production filmmakers included Jesse Fine, Halo Hoffman, Paul Richards, Skye Stouber, Cadie Godula, and Blue Van Alst
Portland State University Sonic and Music Production Laptop Ensembles are under the direction of Christi Denton. PSU School of Film Experimental Production is led by Pam Minty.