A soundscape that condenses several million years of shifting Tectonic forces as the first complex life form on earth emerged. This is Primordial, a unique merging of science and sound.

Primordial is a visceral listening experience that re-enacts the shifting of tectonic plates to form the Flinders Ranges, then travels through time to the appearance of the Ediacara fossils, the first sign of life on earth. The sonic world of Primordial reflects this vast landscape on the edge of the Australian desert. Koukias imagines the sound of shifting tectonic plates through manipulated piano preparations and electronics to create sounds in cascading waves.

The piano as we know it is reinvented, its resonance reflecting a haunting, fragile sound world. Gabriella pounds and caresses the piano, cajoling beautiful and extraordinary prepared sounds that are symbiotic with Koukias’ electronic score.

Piano Gabriella Smart
Tape Sound Design Mischa Duncan te Pas
Live Sound Design Greg Gurr
Lighting Design Jason James

Commissioned by the Hon. Christopher Schacht and SOUNDSTREAM New Music

For more information see IHOS Amsterdam