On Being
Shakespearian
suite for Saxophone quartet and computer
2004
Stefan
Klaverdal
Recording
of a smaller section
Backing tracks
(as mp3s) of
About
the piece
This suite
is thematically derived from the classical play of Hamlet, and was originally
composed to a dance performance of the play. In this version, however, it is perfectly
possible to play as a standalone piece.
First
performed in Stockhom, November 2004 by Stockholm Saxophone Quartet.
Technical
information
The
notation is quite open, allowing the players in several of the pieces to freely
choose several aspects of interpretation, such as some rhythms, tempo, etc.
The
interaction between saxophone and computer is crucial; the computer part is in
some of the pieces totally dependent on the sound recorded live from the
saxophone(s). Furthermore, the computer is used as a real instrument, playing
on the transformed sounds inputted from the saxophone. It also needs a
player/musician for the computer since very little is preprogrammed.
There is,
however, also a CD-version of the electronics, if one is unable to find a
computer for the performance.
There are
also some special notation and instructions. These are explained on the
following pages.
If desired
to enhance the performance, there are also four pieces for computer solo or CD
that can be added to a concert if one for instance wishes to give it a more
Shakespearian air.
The pieces
are called "Afraid", "Time", "England"
and "Confidence" and are all pieces that
fit nicely in various parts of a performance of "Hamlet". These are
all available from the composer.
The suite
is written in a specific order. This, however, may naturally be changed if
desired, or certain pieces may be omitted at will.
The last
piece (the addendum) "tuning to fight" is not part of the suite
originally, but was used in the dance performance. It may be added somewhere
suitable if desired.
A
suggestion may be to use it as an entrance, or as a way of freely using the
room (moving from the normal playing position).
To play the
piece this equipment is needed:
One computer
(apple G4 at least) running MAX/MSP 4.3
The patch made
for this piece
One soundcard
with two inputs and two outputs
Preferrably one
midicontroller (JLCooper CS-32 or equiv.) to play the computerpatch
Two microphones
connecting the alto and tenor saxophone and computer/soundcard
One mixer with at
least one aux send (or two if monitor is used)
PA-system (two
channels)
Preferrably a
monitor system (for saxophone player)
Alternatively a
CD player and a PA-systen.
CDs with audio or
programming can be obtained from the composer.