wingbeat uses the flight formations of migratory birds as a model for listening and collectively maintaining energy. To conserve energy for long distance flights, birds fly in V formations, stagger their wingbeats, and react quickly to each other. Musicians are prompted to create sonic representations of this organically rhythmic phenomenon. The buildup of wingbeats earns moments of soaring, and sometimes flight is interrupted. The series of text cues aims to challenge and facilitate the project of sonic togetherness.
The piece Migration Before the Storm is inspired by two common and fascinating bird behaviors: Migration and the group dynamic right before a drastic weather change, such as a storm. Both of these specific behaviors can happen in large groups and in this piece are represented by 4 tonal centers that appear in different shapes, dynamics and tempos
Inspired by the Flightless Cormorants. These birds are an endemic species to the Galapagos Island, and just like their name implies, they cannot fly. Because of this they are confined to the shoreline they inhabit. Although these birds have lost their ability to fly, they are impressive swimmers, and important underwater predators. Flightless is a musical ‘slice of Flightless Cormorant life’ piece. Each performer represents ad individual bird. How much time do these birds spend on land vs. water? How many dives do these birds take? How will these birds interact when their paths cross?
“Biophony" is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and the New York State Legislature.
