SOLO [Nr.19] 2.2.2

SOLO [Nr.19] is an algorithm designed to digitally replicate the original analog setup required for the performance of six versions of "Solo für melodieninstrument mit rückkopplung" by Karlheinz Stockhausen. The original composition involved five individuals - four technicians and the main instrumental performer. SOLO [Nr.19] streamlines the technical responsibilities of these four technicians for each of Stockhausen's six versions.

Written in 1966, "Solo" (for Melodic Instrument with Feedback) by Karlheinz Stockhausen was crafted for solo melodic instruments and integrates a feedback system to enable the soloist to generate polyphonic music. Premiered in Tokyo the same year, this piece shares its genesis with Stockhausen's work "Kontakte". "Solo" employs tape recording techniques using a single head alongside movable playback heads, allowing for the synthesis of intricate sounds through layering.

The original version necessitates an analog technical setup with a solo instrumentalist and four assistants (technicians): three managing the manipulation of various sliders (left and right channels) controlling the microphone, delay-line, and output, as well as an assistant regulating time values in the delay-line. During a performance, a portion of the performer's output is recorded using a two-channel recorder. Through a feedback loop, these segments are stacked and processed with varying delays to create a distinct sound, which is then played through two sets of speakers alongside the live performance of the soloist.

The accompanying score (Universal Edition-Wien, 1969) includes six pages of music and six pages detailing the Form-Schema, featuring comprehensive performance instructions. "Solo" exemplifies Stockhausen's use of "controlled alea" as a compositional method, leaving many decisions to the performer - from version selection to material arrangement, tonal variation requests, page order, and more. These interpretational freedoms are guided by the composer using macroscopic or microscopic order parameters, narrowing down infinite possibilities to specific predefined or definable options. The interpreter's role in crafting a unique and singular performance each time remains pivotal in this piece.