Saariaho Timbre - Electronics Flashcards
What is amplification?
When electrical equipment is used to boost the sound of an acoustic instrument or voice. A microphone is used to ‘pick up’ the sound. The sound is then transmitted through an ‘amplifier’ and then out of speakers.
Why does Saariahio use amplification in the ‘electronic’; enhanced version of ‘Petals’?
The microphone placed closely to the cello helps bring out some of the timbral detail in the quieter sounds.
What is reverb?
This is an electronic effect that helps sustain sound. It is sometimes described as making the sound ‘wetter’. Notes without reverb are known as ‘dry’. A note that has reverb added sounds like it is being played in a large space - i.e. where more reverberation of the sound can take place.
Why does Saariahio use reverb in the electronic enhanced version of ‘Petals’?
As well as creating the effect of reverb, it also allows the performer to sustain the notes in some of the slower sections.
What is a harmoniser?
This is a machine that turns one note into a chord - i.e. notes are added to a single note that the microphone picks up.
How does the ‘harmoniser’ machine/effect work in ‘Petals’?
The harmoniser sends the ‘input’ pitch (i.e. the pitch the microphone picks up) out of tune. It does this by adding 2 notes to it. One note is a quarter of a tone below it and one notes is a quarter of a tone above it.
What is the symbol for ‘Reverberation’ on the score?
R
What is the symbol for ‘Harmoniser’ on the score?
H
How does Saariaho notate the use of reverberation and harmoniser effects in the score?
She uses hairpin symbols (i.e. crescendo and diminuendo lines). She indicates the level required by using percentages - 0% meaning no effect and 100% meaning the maximum capability of the machine.
In which instances does Saariaho often use ‘Reverberation’?
She will use it in a musical way - i.e. it enhances what is already happening. She will use it in quieter passages, in sections where she needs to smooth over the sound where there are slow changes in double stopping chords.
In which instances does Saariaho often use ‘Harmoniser’?
She will use it in a musical way - i.e. it enhances what is already happening. She will use it in passages where there is an increase in sound brought about from increased bow pressure.
