DESCRIPTION:
Sound Patterns, for chorus (1961)

The Brandeis University Chamber Chorus
Alvin Lucier

In Pauline Oliveros' jet-propelled Sound Patterns, the conductor deals with precise, difficult rhythmic structures that have many changes of tempo. The singers improvise pitches within broad areas of high, middle, and low and are asked to produce a varied assortment of sounds, including whispers, tongue-clicks, lip-pops, and finger-snaps. The vocal noises along with tone clusters produced by the pitch improvisations, create a humorous electronic effect.

Art by Gustavo Arias Murueta