Highlights from ‘Terre’ Made In Scotland Showcase 2023 - SUMMERHALL

‘SYRINX’

Voice, piano, hand percussion, electronics: - Drawn to birdsong since childhood, in composing Syrinx Deborah recorded and analysed vocalisations from birds on the Water of Leith, Edinburgh. Notating rhythms and using pitch shifting techniques to decipher melodies and intervals in detail, Deborah recreates the sound of birds using her own voice. Deborah has led a series of workshops with choirs exploring birdsong and recording / biomusic, creating ‘flocks’ of sounds made of collective human voices.

‘FRACTAL’

Fractal was devised from a graphic score designed by the composer based  on the fractal patterns of nature - specifically trees. Starting from a mid range  note (E Flat 4 - G4) the work expands contrapuntally, creating melodic layers  and fragmented rhythms as the branches split. For the soundfestival premiere, Deborah is using a series of extended techniques on the harp to  develop the fractal shape. French horn and voice add sonic foliage.

I am currently working with a visual artist to create some bespoke visuals to be used as part of ‘Terre’ - an enhancement on its premiere, which will be screened as part of tour in 2023. This is an excerpt (work in progress) from ‘DRONE’ currently using stock video