interactive gestural arabic songs
by Baidar Al Basri (IRQ)
For several months, Iraqi singer Baidar Al Basra, living in The Hague, works in a 30-hour residency in multiple sessions with artistic researchers of the IOMAIM Research. Topics include the transformation of gestures and musical enrichment. Baidar will
test different wireless sensors, and
experiment with interactive computer music generated by Baidar's own singing and movements.
Musical starting point is the Arabic improvisational solo vocal style Mawwal
Baidar will investigate whether collaboration with interactive electronics, in which gesticulation plays an important role, can add something to the meaning and expression of her performances. Data generated by sensors will be transmitted to computer software of IOM-AIM Research and should lead to simultaneity of human solo acoustic singing Mawwal and Arabic gestures, and computer music that closely matches the sound idiom in which Baidar is comfortable, to transform into a "virtual sound world" that enriches acoustic singing and can connect styles.
Participants in Baidar's research are: Baidar Al Basri (IRQ, The Hague, traditional Arabic improvisational singing Mawwal), Johan van Kreij (NL, The Hague, programmer, improviser, teacher KC), Peter van Bergen (NL, The Hague, PhD researcher transformation of improvisation), Michele Abolaffio (IT, The Hague, sensors hardware)
In this research LOOS seeks cooperation with The Arab organizations Elhizjra, Foundation Yasmin, Rabbani Foundation (attention for connection of and understanding between different cultures) and for distribution of the result Marmoucha, the media channels LOOS Channel and Radio West, and the municipality of The Hague (through various channels attention for artistic research as a connection of different cultures). The research will be concluded with a concert, explanation and discussion for a diverse audience with an Arabic meal to connect audience groups.