Multisensory Graphic Score Study # 2: Around the Square Round
This multisensory score for unspecified voices (V1-V4) and guitarist (G1) is both a map for performer movement and a sonic designation of notes to be sung or played. As well as sounding the notes, performers literally ‘move the music’ by enacting the score into a space.
Performance takes place in an open area (ideally 4 metres x 4 metres/13 x 13 ft) with the audience seated around the playing area.
Other than discrete guides (tape spikes), there needn’t be conspicuous markings on the performance space: painted bar lines, etc. While the score is marked with cardinal points (N,S,E,W) to aid in orienting players in a space, there is no need to relate these to actual compass directions. It is recommended that audience members also be given the score, providing them with an insight into how the performers are negotiating the space based on the score/map instructions.
To begin, V1 - V3 line up at the northwest corner of the outer treble clef square and follow their ‘a)’ instruction and V4 goes to the northwest corner of the inner bass clef square and follows the V4 a) instruction. Subsequent instructions are place on the map where they are meant to be enacted. For example, V3's initial ‘a’ instruction at the NW corner is followed by a ‘b’ instruction at the NE corner, where the performer is told to rest for 8 bars then move in the reverse direction back to the beginning. Performers will walk on each beat (crotchet/quarter note) moving at 60 bpm. The arrows show the direction to move. ‘Rest’ indicates both a pause in sound and movement. Once performer is instructed to move, they should not rest (e.g., at corners, where they should always proceed around) unless otherwise instructed.
