Multi-tool suite of pieces for vocals, guitar and interactive system.

The three pieces created with the ‘multi-tool’ approach investigate how interactive audio-visual systems might be used with traditional singer-songwriter material to create performances that exhibit a high degree of liveness (Sanden, 2013). The use of signal analysis and score-following techniques allow the human performer to play guitar and sing rather than operate controllers. The systems’ response components include multiple Max for Live devices creating melodic, harmonic and/or rhythmic accompaniment. Though unpredictable, the output of the devices within these systems were constrained in order to be compatible with the composed features of the song. These constraints were applied through the use of representational data from the instrumental/vocal audio signal, score-following techniques and sequenced material.

These pieces have been published online, Brains Need Bodies Too has been performed at the Irish Sound Science and Technology Association (ISSTA) conference in 2019 whilst research findings have been shared at Loop 2017 (Berlin) and Innovations in Music 2017 (University of Westminster).

• http://www.nationaltrevor.com/music/