Psalm
for any four performers, from four simultaneous video scores
A psalm is an expression of worship. Worship is an expression of reverence. Reverence is a deep respect for someone or something.
I was inspired by structures and methods of guided improvisation by the likes of Anthony Braxton, Anne Bogart and Merce Cunningham to compose this piece for four musicians.
I created four separate video scores that are played simultaneously. Each musician follows the guidelines given to them in their own score, labeled 1 to 4.
The score is for variable instrumentation and can be played by any combination of four performers. If you are interested in performing this piece with your own quartet, the scores are open source and available to all below.
1 / 7
The open-source video scores
Instructions:
- Choose a collection of instruments, or part of your instrument, that makes vulnerable, fragile sounds.
- Slowly transition to instruments with more body, punch and louder dynamics over the course of the piece.
- Before you begin, all musicians breathe in through the nose for four counts, hold the breath for eight counts, and breathe out through the nose for four counts.