A description of an Ableton Live Set for live improvisation and performance.
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The
sounds for the Too Flutter are generated using groups of metal washers,
aka "moths," dropped down threaded rods when the performer releases a
paper clip clamp holding groups of moths, 1-4m using long nylon lines.
As the moths spin down the rails of the threaded rod, "fluttering like
moths," they produce sounds colored by metal resonators attached at
three points in each stem. These are each miked using an embedded piezo
contact microphone, 1 for each of the 12 stems . Rhythms are produced
by rods which are twisted either clockwise (produces rhythms as the
moths jump rails) or counterclockwise (causes moths to skid around the
curve before catching the rail again). Live performances are especially
effective because of the rich sounds generated and the beauty of the
falling moths. Image to the left is from a related instrument operated
using a pine dowel system. Click to enlarge.The Ableton Live Set above is comprised of two variations on the original soundfont, and then a second starting about half way into the original sound file, slightly detuned, and initiated with a brief crescendo. It also includes pre-performance MIDI files, all of the sound track files from the Mass for Heavy Rail, and then open MIDI columns for live soundfont performance using the LaunchPad Pro. This set, as presented above is arranged for 4-channel playbackx.
Stereo sound example: Mass for Heavy Rail
NOTE: Use headphones or an external sound system to listen to this piece.
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