Backshift is a computer program that I wrote with the intention of using the computer as a musical instrument in group improvisation. The work on Backshift has resulted both in the software and in several recordings. The software was created with Max/MSP.
The Backshift Sessions are a selection of different pieces – all recorded in 2008 – in which the Backshift software is used as an instrument. Besides the acoustic sounds of the cello/piano (Scott Roller) and the violin/voice (Ulrike Stortz) electronic sounds and effects come to the fore. The software sometimes plays autonomously with the musicians and at other times is used as an instrument (also in combination with Ableton Live).
Ulrike Stortz: violin, voice
Scott Roller: cello, piano
Hanna Schraffenberger: computer, backshift, ableton live
