Automata (2020)

Instrumentation: Bb Clarinet & Fixed Media

Difficulty: Medium

Duration: 3’15”

Performance Materials (PDF score & mp3 Electronics Track) - $20.00

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Automata, for clarinet and fixed media, explores the relationship between technology and humanity. The piece depicts a computer’s desperate attempt to become human through imitation and dialogue, with the clarinetist playing the role of the human. 

The piece is structured in three sections. The first begins with a broad, expansive soundscape which sets the stage for the clarinet’s introduction - wild improvisation that lays bare that which makes us human; free will. This opening section gives way to a constant groove. The clarinet continues in its wildness with wailing glissandi, echoed in the electronics, before the performer and computer engage in a fast-paced dialogue of precise articulated rhythmic gestures. This section then transforms to a more languorous and beautiful language, the harsh ostinato replaced with a softer vibraphone-like pattern. The clarinet enters with long, expressive phrases repeated exactly by mellow synths - a successful transformation is perhaps within the computer’s grasp. The rhythmic patterns finally die down, leading to the final section that echoes the introduction, with the same soundscape and more improvisation from the clarinetist, albeit in a softer and more contained way.

Eleven distinct synthesizers are used for the electronics; two pads, five leads, and four arpeggiators. There is substantial automation, with panning used often and properties of synthesizers such as the cutoff frequency changed throughout to morph the sounds over time. Everything in the electronic track was created in GarageBand using only synthesized sound.