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Ute Wassermann
Aus Atem Performance and sound installation with video and performance artefacts
Performance for inhaling vocalist and bags of exhaled air, 20 mins (2020)
Alte Münze - 17. Oct. 6pm  
(c) Cristina Marx/Photomusix © Cristina Marx/Photomusix

Which strategies can I use to continue singing during the current Corona situation, without emitting potentially dangerous aerosols? What are the consequences for vocalists? What will the future of singing look like?
In front of me stands a miked light base illuminating a stack of cellophane and parchment paper bags. Pushing myself to my physical limits, I sing solely whilst breathing in. The sound spectrum of this claustrophobic condition ranges from ingressive wheezing, whistling, creaking, shrill and frail multiphonics, to soft and high bel canto-like tones. An additional contact microphone amplifies the voice singing through my skin. As the performance progresses, I release all of my exhaled air 
into cellophane and parchment paper bags held in front of my mouth. They turn into a mask, a breath reservoir, air filter, inhaler, and drum machine. I place the bags filled with breath on the light base. Constantly inhaling, I sing a duet with a nascent, crackling sculpture composed of light and exhaled air.

Ute Wassermann (GER)
voice artist, composer, improvisor, is internationally known for her many-voiced and extreme vocal sound-language. She extends her voice using birdcall-whistles, lo-fi electronics, resonators, and field recordings. Her work engages in the areas of composition and improvisation, music and performance art.
https://vimeo.com/user20410741

Ute Wassermann