Alloy Workshop feat. Brian Malnassy

Please join us for a casual group class that explores the "prepared piano", a special process of preparing a solo acoustic piano with various metal, rubber and plastic materials on and in between the strings of the piano that creates new sonic possibilities for the instrument.

Intended for those interested in crafting, woodworking, construction, engineering, art installation, music and the piano, experimental art, or simply those that would like to passively observe, this event is open to all. Hands-on experimentation with the preparations and the instrument are welcome and encouraged. Attendees will also have plenty of time to ask specific questions, or work on projects independently, as desired.

Created by Shi-An Costello and hosted by Experimental Sound Studio, the workshop runs monthly, and offers the resource of a different invited guest each month to provide guidance and experiential knowledge in piano performance and technology to participants, if desired. Participants are welcome to try new ideas out, ask questions, or talk out new ideas communally and with the guest expert.

This fourth session will feature multi-media artist and musician, Brian Malnassy. Brian has worked extensively with eighth blackbird, Dal Niente, Third Coast Percussion and others. He has spent a significant amount of his undergrad and post-grad time exploring the materiality and potential of instruments.

The workshop event will run app. 90 minutes.
Tickets are Free. RSVP is required.
Doors open at 4:15pm. Event starts at 4:30pm.

Participants under the age of 21 are welcome; Parent or guardian accompaniment is recommended for participants under 12.

This series is funded by generous individual donors.

Info: This workshop invites you, the attendees, into the process of preparing a piano, offering insight into the successes and challenges faced through years of experience with the setup. There will be hands-on demonstrations, audience-led experimentation, as well as opportunity to play the instrument for yourself, and ask questions you might have for Joshua, Shi-An, or each other.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Experimental Sound Studio, 5925 North Ravenswood Avenue, Chicago, United States

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