[beyond] is a fusion of human expressions on both personal and collective levels. It bridges the divisions inherent in our world—tradition and innovation, composition and improvisation, West and East, machine and human—embodying the personal histories and experiences of its performers. The interactive components (audio-visual) in [beyond] are linked via a computer programme (Max/Jitter, programmed by Sachiko Hayashi) as well as via human perception to achieve flexible and yet complex structural audio-visual composition. 

The visual focuses on 3 female Noh theatre players, filmed in Tokyo 2006. 

The audio, performed live using MIDI guitar, sampler, signal processor, and looper, integrates diverse practices and experiences in music composition and performance.

more about the Visual

Although the Noh theatre is traditionally performed by male Noh players only, some female Noh performers in recent years are starting to be acknowledged within Japan.  The work serves also as a documentation of these female Noh theatre performers. 

more about the Audio

To achieve flexibility and mobility, the music avoids strict categorisation—it is neither fully improvised nor entirely notated. Instead, it combines carefully prepared soundscapes tailored to complement the moving imagery with a dynamic, unpredetermined execution in time and manner.

The visual of [beyond] was partially realised at the Experimental Television Center in New York, where Sachiko spent time as an artist-in-residence.

Our sincere thanks to : Hikaru Uzawa, Hisashi Uzawa, Yoko Yamamura, Chris Cutler, Naoya Mura, Yoko Fukuoka, Yasuyo Hirai