CIA "The Sound" Nov. 13th

In case you missed our show that airs every Sunday at 3pm, don’t panic! Here is a quick overview of what happened:

First off, if you’re new to this, The Sound is a show that is run by the CIA (Composers and Improvisors Association), a group of students on campus that represent student artists. The Sound features music, sound art, poetry, spoken word, short stories (anything really!) that is written by Laurier student, alumni, and faculty. We would love to have some of your works on the show, if you are an artist at Laurier and what to get your work on The Sound, please do so by sending your file(s) here: www.facebook.com/laurier.cia and send us a brief description of your piece.

This week we showcased Laurier very own Hilary Whiskin and Dave Klassen, who came into the studio to talk to us about composition and improvisation techniques. They had much to say about these topics, but if I had to sum it up, it would be like so; if you’re stuck in a writer’s block, and can’t figure out where to begin, try limiting yourself. “Less is more” in the world of composition. Limit yourself in the instrumentation that you want to use, or the amount of notes. Pick very limited guidelines and stick with it. An example that Hilary mentioned was writing an entire piece using only a single note.

In regards to Improvisation, Dave suggested that getting “too into” what you’re doing could distract you from creating your finest work when improvising. Playing off of your partner will inspire you to create fresh new ideas on the fly. Heck, your partner(s) will end up doing half of the work for you if you just listen, as they will do the same for you. Otherwise you may end up in a repetitive cycle, playing the same ideas over and over. It’s easier than you think!

Finally, the second half of the show featured James and myself, James, improvising on the many synthesizers we have here in the Studio. For those curious, we used a Nord Electro, Korg MS-20, Roland Juno 106, and a Kawaii SX-240. We laughed, we cried, it was beautiful.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Student Composer Concert, Wed. Nov. 16th. 8pm, Maureen Forrester Recital Hall (Free!)

Friendly Rich & The Lollipop People: Friday, November 18, 2016 @ 8pm | Walper Hotel – Oak Room
20 Queen St. S., Kitchener
$15 General / $10 Senior & Arts Worker / $5 Student

WLU Symphony Orchestra: Friday, November 18, 2016 @ 8pm | Theatre Auditorium

LISTEN TO THE SHOW ON SOUNDCLOUD

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

www.facebook.com/laurier.cia

CHECK OUT HILARY WHISKIN’S SOUNDCLOUD AS WELL