(The Presence of) Pressure

Robert Pritchard (University of British Columbia)*

(The Presence of) Pressure
Image credit: Robert Pritchard (University of British Columbia)*
  • Remote Performance
  • Paper PDF link
  • Presence: Remote
  • Room Location: Rich Mix in "The Mix”

Abstract:

This work, for flute and Max/MSP, uses a simple hyper-flute fitted with a WooSIE (Woodwind Sensors for Interactive Environments) system, an outcome of the Tracking and Smart Textiles Environments project [4, 5] and influenced by the work of [1, 2, 3]. One aim of WooSIE is to inexpensively provide for the generation of digital data without having a performer give up refined technique and performance skills developed on their preferred instrument, and without serious modifications to that instrument. With this WooSIE five FSR sensors are mounted on 3D-printed removable plugs in the open-hole flute keys, and a clip-on wireless system sends the keyed pressure data to the software. The performer is able to use combinations of keys and key pressure thresholds to trigger samples, increment through sections of a piece, control audio processing, and start and stop loop recording/playback.