suddensite is the studio of musician bruce gremo
The Cilia is a patented invention, a new instrument which functions as a vertical flute controller. Its performance gestures are modeled after the Japanese Shakuhachi, but it sounds quite different, using complex synthesis, sound file manipulation and re-synthesis techniques. It consists of a physical flute controller (currently with a PIC microcontroller) and software application (MaxMSP). It is intended primarily as an event controller (requiring simultaneity between control gesture and sonic generation). Any capable instrument has to be more than a process controller (requiring control operators for sequences, algorhythms, sonifications, or pre-recordings). By definition, flutes split an air column produced with an open embouchure (lip technique). The Cilia mouthpiece splits the air column and derives control data from an analysis of the split air column’s dynamics. All flute wind techniques can be used. Five high-resolution (0-6000) three-dimensional (x, y, z) track pads enable the use of numerous finger techniques developed on non-keyed flutes like the shakuhachi. The Cilia enables dexterity in manipulation of several timbre types (overtone structure, harmonic color, density, and texture). It performs monophonically, heterophonically, homophonically, polyphonically, and cacophonically.