Soundcheck

Description:

This edition of Soundcheck took the form of a panel discussion on the role of improvisation in contemporary music. Moderated by Iain Macanulty, the panel included Nikita Carter, Wayne Horvitz, Daniel Scheidt, Alex Varty, and Donna Zapf. 

Discussion questions included: What is the relationship between a composition as a musical entity in itself and the wide variety of interpretations that may result in performance of that composition? Where does the improviser’s “inspiration” come from, and is it related to the composer’s inspiration? What is the role of memory and experience in improvising? What are the socio-political implications inherent in the act of improvising? What is the meaning of a recorded improvisation? And If computers invent music in performance, are they improvising? 

Presented in partnership with Pro Musica.