Nested Duets (2022)

Collaborators, Compositions, Research

In Nested Duets, an ensemble of any size and kind can improvise with one or more laptops running a generative music app. The computer has two roles:  it provides possible pitch choices for the human performers and creates accompanying electronic sounds. The performance instruction is on the computer screen. 

Download and Recording

DropBox Download: contains instructions and SuperCollider file

Performers: Kevin Declaire, Samuel Khalil, De’Andre Little, Jose Llanas, Logan Macka, Lucas Manther, James McCloskey, Joseph Mcelwain, Mal McNitt, Niko Poljanac-Leboeuf, Christopher Reid, Abby Thibodeau, Nathan Zonnevylle
Recording Team: Sinead Cassar, Kevin Declaire, Logan Macka, James McCloskey, Niko Poljanac-Leboeuf, Christopher Reid

Hardware and Software Requirements

  • Computer: PC or Mac. There can be one or more computers. In general, have one computer per 2-3 performers.
  • SuperCollider: Download and Install the app https://supercollider.github.io/downloads.html Mac users will need admin access to the computer to authorize the app
  • NestedDuets.scd file: Download NestedDuets.scd file from https://joowonpark.net/nestedduets
  • Amp and cable: Connect the amp to the computer. If the ensemble is miking the instruments, connect the output of the computer to the house mixer.

Running the Computer Part

  1. Open NesteDuets.scd in SuperCollider.
  2. Select Menu->Language->Evaluate File.
  3. For transposing instruments, enter the transposition in half-steps (positive number only).
  4. Press the “1. Click to start” button. You should hear sounds after a countdown. There is no need for a synchronized beginning when using multiple computers.
  5. When ending, press the “2. Running. Click to end” button. Wait for all sounds to end. Coordinate when to end the piece with the ensemble members.
  6. Press the “3. End. Click to reset” button to reset. Repeat steps 1-5 for replay.

Performance Instruction

  1. Improvise using the pitches displayed in the GUI.
  2. The pitch choices changes at a random pace after a countdown in the top-right corner of the GUI.
  3. Improvise dynamics and articulations.
  4. Make a noticeable change on the “downbeat” after the countdown.
  5. Play like an ambient track. Less is more. Blend in. Play complimentary sounds to the computer part.
  6. Percussionists can improvise freely in ambient style. Avoid making beats if possible.

Commission Info

Nested Duets was part of the 2022 Black Mountain College Radio Art program. 103.3 Asheville FM’s Lucid aired the piece on December 12, 2022. Electronic Music Ensemble of Wayne State (EMEWS) thanks BMC and 103.3 Asheville FM for the opportunity!