Different Tubes.

The research explores clarinet and bass clarinet preparation in a technologically up to date context and discusses the consequent transformation of the performer's perceived and acknowledged identity. Despite the triggering role that preparation had in the development of other instruments' repertoire and technique, its use on clarinet remains, to date, infrequent, with very few examples of works conceived for the prepared instrument. Besides, an accessible and systematic study method to approach the existing repertoire and the related techniques is still missing. The goal of this work is then twofold: stimulating artistic creation in this field and sharing knowledge on these practices. The research is inspired by the ongoing discourse on the human-technology relationship. Instrumental preparation inserts itself at the core of the symbiotic relationship happening between the instrumentalist and his instrument: modifying the instrument and the activity happening on it, preparation affects and transforms the performer. A distinctive characteristic of this work is then the choice of a "contemporary" approach to preparation, making use of digital technologies to expand the instrument and the traditional creative process. For this reason, the collaboration with the Department of Product Development of the University of Antwerp, and with composers/experts in this field, will offer the possibility of developing new instrument prototypes with the support of 3D printing technology and of the Arduino electronic prototyping platform. Two research questions will guide the study: 1. What are the logics and methods of clarinet preparation? 2. How does the preparation process transform the performer's practice and role? Research in this field will be done through the analysis of case studies (solo works for prepared clarinet or bass clarinet, from the existing repertoire or fruit of new collaborations). Through a reflective diary of my daily working practice and activity, and through the development and validation of a specific technical training. The research will produce a catalogue of clarinet preparation strategies, examining the logics that determine the choice of a specific preparation and the methods that practically realize them. Acknowledging and collecting the fundamental experience of performers and teachers who have previously worked on this repertoire, the study will discuss the competences that a prepared clarinetist needs to possess, confront the changes in his study and working practice and propose a specific technical training for the required skills.

Keywords:MUSIC

Disciplines:Music composition, Music performance, Musical instruments and instrument design

Project type:Collaboration project