Snowflake for Christian Wolff
version for three performers
Construct a large snowflake of various materials that will
produce sounds in some manner. At least eight different sounds are desired.
Differences in sounds may be the result of the manner of producing them in
addition to the different materials used.
Each performer may produce 1 or 2 or 3 sounds simultaneously; no more than 3
sounds shall begin at the same time, but any number of sounds may overlap in
time. Rhythm patterns are occasionally desirable, however, sounds of long
duration, especially if the timbre can be change, are preferable. Snowflake
should be slow but not boring.
version for one performer
Construct several, or many, medium-sized snowflakes of various
materials, e.g., one (or more) of paper, one of metal, one of foil, one of wood,
etc. Devise at least three different ways of producing sounds from each
snowflake. Suspend the snowflakes throughout the performance area, which may
include the area normally designated for the audience.
Follow the performance instructions in the above version.
version without an audience
When there is snow on the ground, go outside and walk around --
listen to your footsteps. Vary the ways in which you walk and listen again.
Make a snowball while listening. Listen to the falling snow hit the ground.
Listen to the falling snow hit your arm. Do not ignore other sounds if you
hear some. Stop either when you notice someone watching you or when you get
tired of the piece.
December 24, 1969 Cambridge, Massachusetts
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