Abstract
The development of computer music has emerged since the 1950s, when an increasing number of composers began writing works with electronics. Today, electronic music has become increasingly significant to both performers and the general public. Composers have the opportunity to discover the use of different sound possibilities through this medium. The purpose of this doctoral research paper is to create a performance guide for the piece "Emergent" for flute and electronics (2014) by American composer George Lewis. The perspective of this document explores the connection among Lewis’s compositional virtuosity, performance practice, and interactive music hardware and software. "Emergent" for flute and electronics is an epic and enthusiastic work filled with contemporary techniques and conceptual ideas and is an exceptional interpretation of the composer’s mature compositional style. It is an important contribution to the flute and real-time interactive music repertoire. Lewis uses the timbral spectrum of the flute to creates a series of unique sounds in this piece. Additionally, this work utilizes audio effects through advanced multiple channel audio system, computer music digital workstation and sound spatialization, all of which require the performer to master an extensive knowledge in audio techniques. A performance practice guide is developed in this doctoral paper through examination of published literature, analysis of musical examples, and application of audio techniques from the work. This paper considers the interpretation of its technical and performance practice consideration, including the extended notation of the written scores. This project also aims to provide concrete knowledge in all technical specifications and skills for advanced college students and professional flutists who are interested in playing this piece but may not be familiar with, including the use of equipment and installation of software. Recommendations for interpretation and personal practicing setup are discussed as well.