synchronism, now, before (2022)

solo Bb trumpet

synchronism, now, before is an interrogation of performance temporality, questioning the relationship between composer and performer and the flawed nature of transcription as a musical linguistical tool. Sometimes supportive, sometimes antagonistic, the dynamic between what should be and what was played is one that hinges on communication. This is often expressed through notation, but to what extent do our tools for communication fall short of normal expressive functions? Featuring a solo trumpet player stuck in a loop of composition, recording, and transcription, synchronism, now, before, is a piece that will always be a step out of time with itself.

Recorded and performed by Sam Dechenne, trumpet