Anthony Braxton's Sonic Genome

ANTHONY BRAXTON’S SONIC GENOME

Download application Sonic Genome Application DOC

PROJECT OVERVIEW

The Sonic Genome is one of the most thrillingly ambitious experiments by musical visionary/saxophonist/composer Anthony Braxton: less a concert than the creation of an interactive musical environment. For eight continuous hours, 50+ performers use the compositions and improvisational languages developed by Braxton through his 40 years of artistic investigation to create a living sound world. Ensembles form and split apart like cells dividing and reforming into new organisms; likewise, the members of the audience are invited to be active participants, choosing who and what to listen to as they move about the space.

Braxton will enlist the band members of the 12 + 1 tet as his musical lieutenants in the endeavour, with each given the responsibility of leading sub ensembles of the larger group. The rest of the performers are drawn from our community, ranging from local professionals to college and high school students.

In addition to being a massive statement by a master artist, the Sonic Genome also serves as a powerful tool for creating bonds in the local community. No listener or performer emerges unmoved by the experience; participants describe the event as “life-changing,” resulting in new friendships, and lasting artistic inspiration. And while Braxton conducted a Sonic Genome as a recording project in 2003 (to be released as an interactive DVD in the next year), the Vancouver performance will be the world premiere of the project as a public performance.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Participants must be at least 16 years of age.

Parental consent forms will be required for students under 18 years of age. Consent forms will be included with notification to successful applicants.

Attendance at all three rehearsals is a strict requirement, please be sure to review the rehearsal schedule to ensure your availability prior to submitting this application.

Participants will be required to bring their own musical instruments to both the rehearsals and the performance.
 

Download Application forms

Sonic Genome Application DOC