Eric Chasalow
In a Manner of Speaking for Bass Clarinet and Tape (2000)
Suspicious Motives Music
In a Manner of Speaking for
Bass Clarinet and Tape (2000)
Duration 5:00
Program Notes
In a Manner of Speaking (2000) was composed for virtuoso bass clarinetist Guido Arbonelli. This piece is almost all very fast, being modeled on classic improvised jazz solos like those recorded by Eric Dolphy. The title refers to the vocal quality evoked by the instrument as it leaps around in register, rapidly changing timbre. As in all my pieces for instrument and tape, the prerecorded sounds serve to expand the timbres of the live instrument.
The tape part was realized at the Brandeis Electro-Acoustic Music Studio (BEAMS) using primarily software from Sonic Foundry and Calkwalk, and a Kyma digital music workstation from Symbolic Sound.
A recording of the piece, performed by Guido Arbonelli, appears on the 2003 CD, Left to His Own Devices, New World Records 80601.
Performance Notes
Accidentals do not carry through the bar. They refer only to the note they precede, except in cases of immediate repetition, where, for example C#,C,C would mean C#,C#,C# (even with intervening rests). Cautionary accidentals have been added (in parenthesis) for clarity.
In concert, both the quality and positioning of the playback system are very important. Time in rehearsal should be devoted to balancing the volume and timbre and to positioning. Loudspeakers should be capable of reproducing the full audible frequency spectrum and use of a subwoofer is ideal. While multiple speakers beyond a single stereo pair may be used, at least one pair must be positioned on stage, very close to the performer to create an ensemble sound. Any sound coming from remote speakers should be at a lower volume than the main, stage pair. If on-stage speakers are not possible, a microphone or pickup on the instrument is essential to properly mix the prerecorded and live sound.