No-gos, Incidents, Malfunctions and Errors: The Encyclopedia of Failed Performances (alt.nime Zine Stand)

Iurii Kuzmin∗, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Xinran Chen∗, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (GZ) Wenqing Gu∗, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (GZ) Nicolo Merendino∗, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (GZ)

No-gos, Incidents, Malfunctions and Errors: The Encyclopedia of Failed Performances (alt.nime Zine Stand)
Image credit: Iurii Kuzmin∗, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Xinran Chen∗, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (GZ) Wenqing Gu∗, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (GZ) Nicolo Merendino∗, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (GZ)

Abstract:

Transcending conventional modes of documentation in NIME, this submission presents No-gos, Incidents, Malfunctions and Errors: The Encyclopedia of Failed Performances'', an ongoing zine series where stories aboutfailed’‘performances are shared among the community. The issues of the zine are provocatively organised in an alphabetical order akin to an encyclopedia in stark contrast with the complex and often unclassifiable nature of the subject matter. Through an open call, we bring together first-hand accounts of moments when self-built instruments misbehave, systems jam, sounds fail to emerge, or live setups resist control. By collecting these stories and creating a space for sharing, our project aims to promote reflection on what these situations potentially reveal about artistic intention, situational adaptation, and the relationship between performers and technology.