Palpebla Resonoj #2

for feedback-augmented acoustic guitar
and real-time computer processing

Palpebla Resonoj #2 is a live set / open composition for feedback-augmented acoustic guitar and real-time processing. A discarded vintage f-hole acoustic guitar is the central component of a compound sound generation system that involves acoustic, electric, and digital sound paths, all interfering and interacting with one another. The guitar is hybridized by the addition of a contact microphone, a vibrational speaker, and self-designed software (in SuperCollider). This system fuses the sound and resonances of the instrument with sound processing chains based on virtual models of strings, soundboards, guitar amplifiers, and other effects. In this manner, the physical body of the guitar becomes simultaneously a resonator and a feedback chamber, an interactive acoustic filter and a synthesis exciter and modulator, an acoustic instrument, and a sound diffuser.
The piece is part of a series of works exploring hybrid acoustics through the resonances and dynamic behaviours of a peculiar set of sonic chimeras: old and abandoned acoustic instruments given a new life by turning them into feedback systems. The name of the series means ‘Palpable Resonances’ in Esperanto – a hybrid artificial language, just like the instruments themselves.

Year: 2021-22
Type: Performance, composition
Instrumentation: feedback-augmented acoustic guitar and real-time processing
Duration: 20′-25′
Materials/Media: Sound, speakers, computer, controllers, microphones, acoustic guitar, mallets, violin bow, objects,
Software: SuperCollider
Photo credits: Stelios Manousakis