Concert by Angel Deradoorian

Description:

Angel Deradoorian performed new material created over five days while in residence at Western Front. With guidance from Vancouver-based composer Giorgio Magnanensi, she developed her practice of using octophonic (8-channel) systems to diffuse sound throughout space.

Deradoorian’s performance in the Grand Luxe Hall combined meditative vocals, transcendental drones, electronic instruments, synthesizers, effects pedals, and live looping with the duduk, shvi, and zurna—instruments used in traditional Armenian folk music. She performed in the round with a quadrilateral arrangement of equipment. Audience members were seated with their backs to Deradoorian to heighten the listening experience within her multi-channel sonic environment. Her hour-long experimental set embodied lamentation and catharsis to commemorate the 1915 Armenian Genocide, and payed homage to her cultural heritage.

Presented in collaboration with the Armenian Cultural Association of British Columbia, and with the support of the Government of Canada. 

Video documentation of this event is available by request.