In Ecclesiis: a global performance

This telematic performance of Gabrilli's 'In Ecclesiis' (1596) was performed in 2 locations simultaneously: Newcastle (Australia), Linz (Austria). Telematic communication sends and stores data via networks using telecommunications and informatics. An inherent problem with any telematic performance is latency: time delay resulting from sound and image travelling via the internet. Current performance practices focus on musical textures based on layering where there is no perceived metric beat or mono directional communication. The research in this performance was to create a seemingly non-latent performance. 'In Ecclesiis' was chosen due to its clearly defined cohorts (brass, 2 choirs, soloists) performing antiphonally. To achieve this, the performance separated the visual communication from audio communication. A main conductor was separated and conducted by video. The conductor could not see or hear the musicians and singers. Sub-conductors were used in both locations and conducted in time to the main conductor's video stream. The audio was sent via the software Jack Trip and remixed separately to coincide with the live performance in Newcastle and Linz. These involved multiple communication channels. The result was a seemingly non-latent performance however as the video attests, the original sources were all experiencing delay of about 1 second. The global performance of ‘In Ecclesiis’ was performed for the International Space Time Concerto Competition (2012) in Newcastle. It was broadcast live on the internet and involved performance venues from 5 countries. AARNET nominated the performance as an example of innovative uses of the internet. The number of sponsors demonstrates the project's significance and impact.