Imperfect Machines

for snare and electronics

Imperfect Machines is in two parts. The first is stressful and anxiety-ridden, sounds of metronomes moving in and out of time as the performer struggles to remain steady. It is clockwork that warps and bends. The second part is soothing and meditative. A response to the first part. This dichotomy in the form reflects my own personal experiences with anxiety. I often find myself struggling to remain calm, reaching for anything that can help. Eventually, I find time to take a breath, calm myself down, and all of the stress washes away.

Imperfect Machines is unlike many snare solos. There is an emphasis on alternative ways of playing the snare, from sandpaper to marbles. In the second part, the performer places marbles on the snare drum creating an ocean drum-like sound.