cooperation/convolution for medium to large instrumental and/or vocal ensemble (2009)
cooperation/convolution recasts the manner in which large ensembles are organized. Typically such groups are hierarchically arranged, with the conductor holding the position of greatest importance and select other individuals such as the concertmaster and principal players having secondary, tertiary, etc. levels of authority. This structure broadly reflects how our society is organized, and both in society and traditionally-configured ensembles holding a position that is nearer the bottom of the hierarchy can be quite alienating. In daily life this organization is realized through variations in salary, education opportunities, housing choices, access to clean water and air, and so forth. Musical hierarchies reinforce and normalize these tangible and significant social disparities. In cooperation/convolution all performers exert equal influence within the ensemble, interpreting graphic images and shaping these interpretations to reflect the actions of others. Ensemble members belong to groups of five or six that communicate through a variety of topological systems drawn from computer networking, and these groups interact to create the total ensemble.
The recording below features the Clarke University Wind Ensemble.