Source: Sam Hamm. 2003. „Computers and Live Performance: Interactive, or Interference?“ Society of Composers, Inc., Region IV Conference, Stetson University, DeLand, FL, November 8, 2003.
Summary: Sam Hamm, the author of this article, tries to establish a basic understanding of what to expect when combining live performance and computers. For a common ground of reasoning, he first elaborates what interaction and interference is. He specifies first, as the performer „output“ results in the computer „input“ and the other way around. Second is to be interpreted as disturbance in any form. For further sake, he defines that a live performance can not exist without one oft the two components.
The resulting interpretation of these definitions would be that lowering the interference would enhance the performance and the performers freedom at task, due to him/her being able to more naturally interact with the given system.
Sam Hamm then goes on listing the advantages and disadvantages of a interactive performance design, saying it would improve the current state of art (Computer assisted performances) as in giving the performer a greater feedback, allowing for an effective logistical setup, lowering rehearsal limitations and opening new paths of creation and perception. On the other side it greatens already existing poles of interference, such as increasing the need of monitoring due to more technical outsourced work and lastly the need of first learning such a interactive system for future use.
Relevance for our project: Since the article primarily focuses on the basic understanding of what one might encounter and having to expect when working on an interactive performance, it is quite enlightening. Alot of the said, even when old, can be converted to our project and should act as a guidline for future decision making. The other side of the „alot“ does not seem to take measure nowerdays and can be treated as a lesson in history.