Movement Study II Description

Movement Study II

by Wayne Siegel
choreography Mata Sakka

In Movement Study II, Wayne Siegel employs the DIEM Digital Dance Suit as an eloquent and transparent interface between a solo dancer and computer processor. Resistance sensors are applied to each of the joints of the dancer and this data is sent to a MAX patch via wireless transmission which then translates the dancer's movements into synthesized music. This direct interface affords the dancer total freedom of movement, while allowing the computer to precisely document and react to the choreography.

The work is divided into three sections. In the first section, slow, but charged movements are accompanied by droning pitches which are directly controlled by the opening and closing of the dancer's limbs. In the middle section the dancer's quick and precise movements translate into a lively and energetic groove which sounds upon any movement, and is suddenly silent as the dancer ceases moving. Mirroring the opening, a slow and expansive mood returns in the final section as low, foreboding pedal tones accompany the compelling choreography.

Mata Sakka, as choreographer and performer of this work was clearly very intimate with the details of mechanics of the Dance Suit and seemed to intuitively understand how her movements would translate into music. Functioning as both musician and dancer, she offered a truly virtuosic performance.

Report written by David Birchfield, producer of the Movment and Sound Concerts

Mata Sakka performing Movement Study II

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