TUS iMac Orchestra: sound synthesis, ensemble performance and improvised solo performances

Abstract

Summary of Teaching & Learning Context This activity is inspired by the works of the Princeton Laptop Orchestra (PLOrk) and the Huddersfield Experimental Laptop orchestra (HELO). These groups consist of students, musicians, and researchers who use laptops and audio software as musical instruments in a group performance ‘orchestra’ context. This lab session was created for the first year students of the Music Technology & Production course as part of the Acoustics 1 module. The appropriate group size for this activity is around twenty students. This activity asks students to explore novel methods of music generation and communal performance, it forms part of the continuous assessment process and assesses a student’s ability to engage in, and contribute to impromtu group-based activities.