He(A)r(e)not – for violin, voice, video and soundscape (2009)

“A simple exploration into the ephemeral, spontaneous and often fragile nature of human communication.”

University Artists Scheme: New Violin Dimensions – A Multimedia Concert with Yao Jue,

15 April 2009, the University of Hong Kong, Loke Yew Hall.

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The act of human communication is a dynamic multi-media, multi-sensorial experience. No two relational interactions are alike, each one a new ‘event’ in time and space, dependent upon current emotional and mental states, as well as external physical and sensorial stimuli. This piece is a simple exploration into the ephemeral, spontaneous and often fragile nature of human communication (miscommunication and non-communication). The two protagonists attempt to engage each other in a meaningful conversation filled with intense urgency and ironic frustration. A deliberately simple score provides the setting for improvisation, interpretation and expression, in order to bring out the cogency and immediacy this vigorous exchange of energy. The video and pre-recorded soundscape form the abstract external visual and aural stimuli within which this open-ended dialogue takes place. Are we present (here)? Do we listen (hear)?