Trumpeter and electronics musician Wells is one third of the Philly based Splice Ensemble. They perform electro acoustic soundscapes that emphasize the integration of technology with musical performance.. Introduced by Uber nerd and Wesleyan prof Paula Mathussen, Sam takes the stage at the comfortable Ring Family Auditorium. He performs his piece “Pillors and Strata” written in 2024. Sam went to a place called the Tank Center in Rangley Colorado. Abandoned large metal tanks that were used in the steam engine industry were the perfect location for Sam to experiment with sound. The Pillors piece was birthed in a 90’ by 20’ metal cylinder, with literally no flat surfaces, the echo would last for almost a minute. He played trumpet and an odd looking flugel with a variety of straight and cup mutes. The sound was computer looped to approximate the tank echo. Sam said the high plains desert location of the tank center was experiencing high winds on his rental day. Instead of ditching the project, Sam embraced the background hum from the wind. Imagine walking on the moon with Miles Davis and you’ll get the picture. Tones looped and processed made for a heady stew of modern composition. I am always amazed at the level of creativity in music, playing one’s trumpet in a desolate large metal Tylenol capsule is a new one on me.
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