Improvised Music from Japan / Haco

Sound-art

Stereo Bugscope / Bugfield

The name "Stereo Bugscope" refers to a performance system that detects oscillating sounds emitted by the circuitry of an electronic device. The term also signifies the act of listening to the electromagnetic world that emerges from the circuit through the use of two inductive microphones (pickups). Waveforms similar to the audio frequencies of electromagnetic leakage, which is faintly emitted from machines, are also released by the inductive coil in a pickup. The sound is then electronically amplified to magnify these signals which are ordinarily so faint as to be inaudible. According to one's position in relation to and distance from the source, changes in the sound can be observed. "Bugfield" refers to a series of works using this system, including performances accompanied by video images and installations using multiple pickups.


Pencil Organ

"Pencil Organ" is an instrument created from a home electronics kit. By tracing two test leads (+/-) across a thick sheet of paper covered with pencil markings, sound is created. By controling the two electrodes (+ and -) with one's hands and a person can become a part (the resistance) of an electronic circuit. The sound is amazingly varied, and the human body (or say, an apple) also produces sound when touched. Changing or slightly dislodging a couple of the parts (blocks) in the electronic circuit adds to the range of the instrument. The nerves in the human body also function via electricity, and though extremely weak, magnetic fields are known to exist within the body.


Howling Pot

The "Howling Pot" consists of a toy pitch-sifter (a long discontinued product called the "Voice Changer") and an enameled pot. The "Voice Changer" has a contact microphone and a small built-in speaker, which easily produces feedback. By placing the microphone in the pot, one can control the feedback by opening and closing the lid (to alter the amount of howl and amplification). Adding coffee beans, mallets and voice to the mix also produce interesting results. The microphone, naturally, captures every sound and using the toy, the pitch can then be altered. This performance system is an example acoustic interaction between a human operator and a cylindrical pot.


Last updated: August 10, 2004