Steven Bryant

Synthetic Sunlight refers both to a world of 1980s neon nostalgia, with the band accompanied by electronic sounds that recall my youth, and to the idea of creating sunlight (and its many metaphorical stand-ins: warmth, joy, hope) where none is to be found naturally.

Dedicated to Glen Adsit, for his tireless efforts to bring more interesting music for every level of musician into the world.

Electroacoustic band work suitable for high schools, colleges, and honor band situations. The electronics component is very similar to my work The Machine Awakes. There are 10 cues triggered by an extra player at certain points in the music. NO click track or headphone is necessary for the conductor. The rhythm is clear in the electronic component, so that the ensemble and conductor should be able to easily align with the track. A good sound system, preferably behind the ensemble and just above the percussionists’ heads, is required, and an extra monitor next to the conductor’s podium is strongly encouraged.

How it works in performance

A player (likely sitting at the laptop computer and mixing board in the audience) triggers each numbered cue by pressing the corresponding number on the computer keyboard. It is also helpful if someone (either the same person or another) can also adjust the levels of the mix to better balance with the band, since the levels will change depending on how full the hall is, how much adrenaline the band has, etc.

Required Equipment

• Laptop computer (preferably Macintosh, but Windows will also work)
• Ableton Live Suite 11 (demo version is fine – no need to purchase it)
• Powerful PA system. Subwoofer strongly encouraged.

Commissioned by: ASPIRE Institute, Glen Adsit, director

Technical Info

View Instrumentation List