Petrified: double bass & live electronics

Petrified is a composition for double bass and live electronics. Bassist Will Yager premiered the piece during our Spring 2019 Laptop Orchestra concert. In this first version, I performed the live electronic processing live. Will asked me to prepare a standalone version that he could take on the road. Here is a screenshot of the live audio processing interface:

In this work, the electronics consist of two layers:

  • live spectral processing of the double bass, including pitch shifting, frequency shifting, noise shaping, etc.
  • multi-playhead sampler, applied to sound sampled at different points during the piece.

These sonic layers are also mixed with the direct sound of the instrument, and sent to a delay and two reverb lines.

Tonight, Will is performing Petrified with the standalone live electronics, during the Electronic Music Studio concert, Stark Studio, Voxman Building, 7:30.

Update: the score and Max patch for Petrified, version for double bass & live electronics, are available for purchase.

Comments

  1. HarryjamesJune 4, 2026 at 5:11 AM

    This is a fascinating look into the creative possibilities of live electronics and acoustic instruments. The combination of spectral processing, sampling, and real-time performance techniques demonstrates how technology can expand the expressive range of traditional instruments in remarkable ways. It's always inspiring to see artists pushing boundaries and sharing insights into their process. For those interested in transforming and enhancing spaces through creative design and expert craftsmanship, you can also visit website to explore professional home renovation services in Essex. Thanks for sharing this innovative project.

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