Racer Session #038 | David Balatero | October 10, 2010

Contour

Often in improvisation, it’s easy to get wrapped up in individual moments, at the expense of the overall contour of the piece. For me as a listener, the overall shape of a piece is a big part of whether I enjoy a piece or not. That is not to say that individual moments aren’t important as well, but rather a recognition that there is a larger scale at work in any piece/improvisation.

Contour can come from a number of places, not limited to: dynamics, pitch range, speed, abrupt motion. 

I’ll be presenting a single piece at the beginning. This piece was composed with a contour already in mind, even in the free sections.

Joining me for this piece are Steve Kim (electric bass), Kate Olson (sop. sax), Evan Woodle (drums), and Aaron Otheim (organ/keyboard). Thanks to them for volunteering their time!

Afterwards, I’ll be presenting a number of paper drawings of contours, based off existing recorded works. One will be used per improv to guide and inspire the improvisers in shaping their whole piece.

Recorded works to be “played” for contour (subject to change/addition)

Astor Piazzolla - Adios Nonino - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_ZKCAeMQuc

Dvorak Cello Concerto Bmin Mvt. 2 - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4Qts4pxJN8

Scott Walker - The Cockfighter - http://dl.dropbox.com/u/4049317/02%20The%20Cockfighter.mp3

Van Morrison - Beside You - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8k-sTG7dRsk 

The Field - A Paw in My Face - http://dl.dropbox.com/u/4049317/02%20A%20paw%20in%20my%20face.mp3

Funkadelic - Maggot Brain - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dh3bleXWaCk