Split Variations (2018 - )

Split Variations is a composition across three specially made vinyl records, each side containing a six minute edit of excerpts from found sound sources, field recordings, and original compositions. To perform the piece the records can be played in any order, at any speed, any number of times, and for any duration.

This work explores cut-up technique, alternative ideas of what a composition could be, ritualistic elements of playing records, and treating sounds as raw materials.

The initial development of this work was supported by the Sound And Music Frances Chagrin Award for composition.

Below are all six sides of the composition played in no particular order at 33rpm.

Timeline:

September 2018 - Selections made from collected sound sources, arranged into six minute tracks. Records pressed, delivered, and placed among my record collection.

September 2019 - Hand-printed sleeves made by rolling a record through ink and across the covers.

September 2020 - Records played for the first time and digitally recorded.