Category: GRAMPUS

Inspired by the vastness of space, the phases of the moon, and the writhing ocean. This piece utilizes tide charts, navigation maps, and projections of the moon.  The performers each take on different roles.  The percussionist plays the role of the moon and the brass players take on the role of the ocean voyagers.  The work represents a voyage on the ocean where nature and man collide.  The moon plays a key role affecting the oceans currents, tides, and general weather.  Translating into a musical and visual experience.

The main idea of this piece is that there is an overall structure to the composition centered around the idea of a voyage.  There is also a strong improvisatory element thrown into this structure through the influence of the moon.  The percussionist (moon) shapes the overall journey, giving rise to different performances using the same overall structure.

The video is meant to be partly interactive, primarily influenced by the percussionist(moon), shaping and altering the live video mixed with animation (Gina Napolitan).  All animation is live processed and consists of tide charts, navigation maps/charts, images of the moon, and animations of sea vessels.  This piece also utilizes custom software for networked laptops for live video.

Sound is processed live through various custom audio patches, manipulated by the two brass players. This work was first performed in a developmental stage with much success.