Doctoral Essay:

A Fundamental Taxonomy of Select Electroacoustic Works for Solo Percussion

Abstract:

A major problem with electroacoustic music for percussion is it remains intimidating to performers. When developing electroacoustic pieces, each composer creates distinct “setups”—a combination of hardware, software, and the connections between them—for any given piece. Creating distinct setups for each piece is costly and cumbersome for the performer. Additionally, these works can intimidate potential performers, requiring skills that are not introduced in a typical instrumental education. This doctoral essay presents a taxonomic system to categorize works for solo percussion and electronic media. Performers will use this system to determine the necessary equipment for electroacoustic works, identify common technological challenges, and acquire the basic skills for the setup. Using the taxonomic system, I constructed a database of works for percussion and electronics to help percussionists identify pieces with compatible setups. Lastly, I provide conversion procedures so the reader may change a piece’s electronic requirements to a system with which they are comfortable. This system simplifies preparing and performing works with electronic accompaniment, making electroacoustic music more accessible to performers. After reading this paper, readers will be able to draw upon this system to gain the skills to create a setup for and perform any electroacoustic piece.

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