for concert accordion,audio/video clips and Max/MSP/Jitter
Breathe On Me (Breath of God) takes it inspiration and name from the words of an old hymn. Written at the request of Joseph Petric, this piece presents a musical opposition of sparse, linear gestures in the outer sections with highly synchronized, rhythmic playing in the interior. This is complemented by changes in the harmonic and rhythmic language of each section, gradually thickening as the climax of the piece approaches. Visually the piece combines close-ups of skin textures and decorations, while spiritually this is an Easter piece, exploring the Spirit Descending, Crucifixion, and Transformation.
Visually the opening section (Spirit Descending) contains a two-part visual canon of smoke and processed smoke, a three-part canon of a body curve, and a two-part canon of skin textures. The middle section (Crucifixion) gradually moves beneath the skin, through the use of skin textures, scars, welts, tattoos, and piercings. The long closing section (Transformation) has a number of visual canons as well, finally uniting several images in a symbolic gesture.
Throughout the piece the performer controls various audio and video processes through the use of Max/MSP/Jitter patches.
Breathe on me breath of God
Fill me with life anew
That I may love what thou wouldst love
And do what thou wouldst do.
