Out of Hand (2008)

trumpet, trombone, and computer

Available on John Gibson: Traces (innova 896).

View score excerpt [PDF].
(score available from American Composers Alliance)

Download the Max patch.

Out of Hand was written for Michael Tunnell and Brett Shuster. The computer plays a hybrid role, exploring the continuum between fixed-media accompaniment and improvised responses based on real-time analysis of the live performance. The musicians play together throughout several contrasting scenes, sometimes taking diverse positions on the underlying material, other times trading the same isolated fragments. In the final third of the piece, the two play in unison rhythm — with the computer extending their sound by harmonization — as they dodge an algorithmically-generated funk bass line.

Performances:

• Eddie Ludema and Lucas Borges, Idaho State University, Pocatello, Idaho, 11/28/22
• Eddie Ludema and Randy Mitchell, Indiana State University Contemporary Music Festival, Terre Haute, Indiana, 10/21/2015
• Alex Fioto and Jonathan Randazzo, North Carolina Symphony “Mission Red,” Raleigh, North Carolina, 10/29/2015
• Samuel Wells and Alex Krawczyk, Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, 10/25/2014
• Eddie Ludema and Logan Chopyk, Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, 7/20/2013
• Peter Wood and Greg Gruner, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, 3/4/2012
• Michael Tunnell and Brett Shuster, International Trumpet Guild Conference, Sydney, Australia, 7/7/2010
• Michael Tunnell and Brett Shuster, University of Louisville School of Music, 4/1/2010
• Michael Tunnell and Brett Shuster, Faculty Recital, Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, 11/17/2009
• Michael Tunnell and Brett Shuster, University of Louisville School of Music, 9/27/2009
• Michael Tunnell and Brett Shuster, SEAMUS National Conference, Sweetwater Sound, Fort Wayne, Indiana, 4/16/2009

Here is a screenshot of the Max patch. (Click to enlarge.)