It worked yesterday: On (re-)performing electroacoustic music

Playing electroacoustic music raises a number of challenges for performers such as dealing with obsolete or malfunctioning technology and incomplete technical documentation. Together with the generally higher workload due to the additional technical requirements the time available for musical work is significantly reduced. Many of the issues have their roots in composers, publishers, performers and promoters considering how their work process could easily be adapted to the additional demands of electroacoustic music. It was also found that the employment of music technologists cannot sufficiently make up for incomplete documentation and inadequate archiving of compositions. Using case studies made up of single compositions and whole concerts, solutions are proposed, which the several parties could effortlessly employ to considerably ease the process of preparing and performing electroacoustic music. Finally hands-on methods on how performers can deal with the situation as it is today are proposed. It is being hoped that by implementing these strategies not only better performances of electroacoustic music will be facilitated but also that electroacoustic works in general will enjoy a longer life-span in the future, thus enabling the sustenance of a vivid electroacoustic repertoire.