Transparency and authenticity in the live arena: An exploration of electronic music performance techniques

Fortune, David

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the interaction between the physical, visual, and audio elements of electronic music performance, and addresses questions regarding authenticity and transparency within the works of many current performers. For analytical purposes, the broad spectrum of existing methodologies are separated in this chapter into two categories: the 'Band with Backing Track' and 'Studio on Stage'. While the two methodologies discussed above are not without considerable merit, they also present clear shortcomings: the 'Band with Backing Track' offers strong visual elements but it is questionable whether these elements actually reflect what is being heard, which risks alienating audiences that demand authenticity of performance from an artist. With the drum sequencer handling the majority of the drum and percussion elements of a given performance, methods of performing the melodic and harmonic elements were also required, which for many electronic artists mainly consist of the use of synthesiser motifs and audio loops.

• Online Publication Date: Jan 21, 2021
• Publication Date: Jan 21, 2021
• Deposit Date: Jun 27, 2025
• Publisher: Taylor & Francis (Routledge)
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Pages: 247-259
• Series Title: Innovation in Music
• Book Title: Innovation in Music: Future Opportunities
• Chapter Number: 16
• ISBN: 9780367363376
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4324/9780429345388-19