Sound response to physicality : Artistic expressions of movement sonification

Abstract: Over the last five years I have been investigating the phenomenon of movement sonification and different types of interaction ongoing within the experience. I have expanded my knowledge and skills in the fields of music, musical performance, dance, music theory, music technology, acoustics, physics, as well as cognitive and computer sciences.  This paper introduces the reader to an extraordinarily broad subject of movement sonification, namely how to create, participate in and understand the phenomenon, with special emphasis on the human perception and proprioception system. Particular attention is also paid to technological issues, presented and described using the example of IMU technology.  The thesis presents also my point of view on direct and indirect interaction through examples of my previous compositions, as well as works created by other artists. The two last chapters are devoted to practical aspects – experiences and observations made from different perspectives – a composer’s, creator’s, performer’s and spectator’s. Based on my latest interactive work Hypercycle I discuss my way of creating an interactive situation, the process of using all possible elements to make the work engaging, yet not overwhelming or overstimulating.