Name:     Zapp
IP:       128.135.175.110
Subject:  1/3 of what I'm up to!
Email:    zapp@civilizedpigdom.com
Website:  http://


My project proposal for computer music class.  It was suggested that I post it
here.  Comments welcome, of course.



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        One of the first ideas I encountered here at the University of Chicago
was a Roman idea:  "Rus In Urbe," or "country in city."  The principle of "Rus
In Urbe" is simple:  the beneficial aspects of the country should also be found
within the city.  Taken physically, this is a fine argument for parks, rest
areas, and open spaces within cities.  Metaphorically, "Rus In Urbe" encourages
us to enjoy calmness, relaxation, and simplicity in our lives which may be
hectic, stressful, and complex.

        I wish to explore the notion of "Rus In Urbe" through sound.  First, I
will extract a a literal piece of the city through a recording of a ride on
Chicago's Red Line.  I will examine this recording with the goal of revealing
"Rus" in several ways:  finding existing "Rus" elements within the recording as
a sound object in itself, juxtaposing clear "Urbe" elements within the
recording with outside (original) musical elements that signify "Rus," and
manipulating the recording itself to reverse or at least to question the
distinction between "Rus" and "Urbe."

        To give you an idea of where I am heading musically and what
associations and assumptions are already in my head (for better or for worse),
I include the following list:



        RUS                             URBE



        Simplicity                      Complexity

        Melody                          Noise / Ambience

        Clarity                         Confusion

        Calmness                        Anxiety

        Relaxation                      Tension

        Nature                          Technology

        Brightness                      Darkness



        There are, of course, elements that will be present which I don't yet
know how to classify (and may remain unclassified, or common to both).  These
elements include but are not limited to repetition, structure, and speech.



        I'll need to get my hands on recording equipment and make the recording
as soon as possible.


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-Z