mediums - for two percussionists, two pianists, and video (2015)
Music and Video by David Bird
Cinematography by David Bird and Bernhard Fasenfest
Instrumental parts recorded on November 8th 2015 at EMPAC in Troy, NY
yarnwire.bandcamp.com/album/yarn-wire-currents-vol-3
In the spring of 2015 I traveled with the members of Yarn/Wire to several different locations across New York City. For each location I designed a unique tuning system that highlighted the most prominent spectral components of that area. These tuning systems were then employed in an adapted vocoder system with which the performers (Laura Barger and Ning Yu) were invited to explore, filter, and otherwise interact with the resonant qualities of their spaces through guided improvisation. These performances were recorded and filmed and would later be orchestrated out to members of the ensemble in live performance.
The title, "Mediums", refers in one instance to media itself and the process of transcription, which played a significant role in the creation of the piece. It also refers to the practice of Mediumship, in which individuals known as "mediums" purport to moderate communication between the living and the spirits of the dead
"Mediums" was composed for and performed by Yarn/Wire: Ian Antonio and Russell Greenberg, percussion; Laura Barger and Ning Yu, pianos, and was produced for the project Yarn/Wire/Currents which explores the intersections of composition, technology, installation, live performance, and music theater.