New Possibilities for Electroacoustic Music Performance

Western Australian new music ensemble Decibel has an ongoing research project dedicated to performing music that combines acoustic and electronic instruments. In the process of revitalising pieces that have been considered un-performable due to limitations in technology at the time of composition, or certain technologies becoming obsolete, Decibel has developed a unique approach to new music performance involving electronic and acoustic instruments. This has also involved the reworking of electronic pieces not intended to be performed live, works that have previously proved difficult to perform, and the ‘electroacoustification’ of acoustic works. The ensemble combines old technologies such as reel-toreel tape machines with newer approaches to music making using interactive programming and networked environments. This paper investigates possibilities for the configuration of electronic devices in chamber music with acoustic instrument performers, arguing that through the development and implementation of a series of methodologies for performance, Decibel is able to create a new kind of pure ‘electroacoustic music’ where electronics and acoustics are truly blended on a live concert platform.