VS : Improvisation with Automated Interactive Instruments

In this performance, two guitar players improvise using electro-acoustic guitars equipped with actuators that can hit each of the strings. By moving through virtual shapes placed around them with their guitars and bodies, they can control the actuators. By using minimal modifications of the instrument and subtly extending existing playing techniques, the setup aims at preserving the technical and cultural heritage of the acoustic instrument. During the performance, the two musicians combine elements of traditional playing with rhythmical interventions that complements the interaction with the shapes. In particular, the shapes allow them to generate stable rhythmical overlapped sequences. The improvisation then develops according to the musicians' inspiration with the shapes integrated in their playing.