What’s that sound? culture, significance and interpretation of electronic sound and noise

Abstract

Electronic and acoustic sound and noise, including signal processed acoustic instruments, and autonomous IMSs (Interactive Music Systems), are key features of many online jam sessions. However, the types and qualities of sound that this introduces to an improvisation may be alien to many cross-cultural performers. This chapter explores the role of un-pitched, sound and noise, across musical cultures and how performers interpret them in intercultural tele-improvisation. Included in this examination, is how online cross-cultural performers perceive electronic sound, and the ways in which this shapes their interpretation and improvisatory responses. The investigation draws on the findings from the performance case studies and perspectives from practitioners and authors who incorporate these elements into their work. While exploratory in approach, consideration is also given to how networked performers engage with an IMS as a collaborative partner in intercultural tele-improvisatory context.