Description:

Manipulating the acoustic feedback (Larsen) effect has a rich history in the music and sound world. Pioneered by the likes of Jimi Hendrix, Steve Reich and others, the natural curve and reaction of the sound to itself exposes an interesting phenomenon rife with musical possibilities. On the other hand, the uncontrollable, wild, and often piercing nature of the resulting sound is a headache for sound engineers.

In A Fragile Equilibrium, three DIY devices made with found and recycled materials are equipped with piezo microphones and old speaker drivers in a feedback loop. Orchestrated by simple software manipulations, the devices self-animate and produce sound, which is then amplified through a 4.1 speaker system. Other than some solenoid impacts, no exterior energy is given to the system, all of the resulting sound and articulation is produced in the closed loop.

Beyond interesting sonic results, A Fragile Equilibrium is a way of letting go of artistic perfectionism. After the pieces are assembled and set in motion, the system self-organizes to produce not only unexpected sounds, but unexpected arrangements, potentially unsettling silences and startling resets.

Type:

Sound Installation

Duration:

Undefined

Presented for:

Ultrasons –
Univerisité de Montréal

Special Thanks:

Gabriel Geneau (Video)