MUSIC

‘Open source’ extends beyond computer code and free software--it’s an outlook that drives the way we share and create new information. The platforms and tools that shape and deliver our music are increasingly open and crowd sourced: YouTube, Soundcloud, Pure Data, Audacity, among many others. The philosophy and methodology of ‘Open source' also relies on the collective wisdom of engaged users to fuel innovative products and ideas.

A creative team of NEC students, led by contemporary cellist Peter Gregson, have spent a semester musically exploring the concept of open source. The result is an invigorating program of eclectic new work that ranges from a solo piece for tuba and guitar pedals to an avant-garde multimedia sound collage. The work will be premiered on May 17th in the Space with a Soul loft—a shared workspace for young tech and social entrepreneurs.

Newly-composed and adapted works to be performed include (OPEN)Source by Peter Dodds, which uses crowd-sourcing data in composition; Silence by Charlie Haden for solo bass and loop station; Unseen by Tara Mueller for Violin, Voice, and electronics; Significant Transits by Vanessa Wheeler for solo tuba and electronics; Solo Duet in Three Movements by Peter Gregson, which uses goPlay, a new responsive performance interface; and H No. 1-7 Redux by Neal Markowski, performed by The Gradient Us Ensemble, with art film by SMFA student Angela Counts.