Aguirre Records / Belgium / 2021 / 2LP
These lengthy improvisations were created in live performance while I was seated on the floor behind a Moog Prodigy and Micromoog synthesizer - one above the other - to allow for simultaneous playing of the two keyboards. With the synthesizers, I used a microphone, small mixer, a specially designed drone box, and two reel-to-reel tape recorders placed side by side with a single audio tape passing from the first machine to the second .
In performance, the sound is recorded on the first machine, played back several seconds later on the second machine, mixed then recorded on the first machine to create an environment of continuously evolving multi-level melody. Each repetition becomes progressively quieter and more distant as new melody is presented.
Each improvisation lasts from twenty-five to forty-five minutes. An entire performance is up to three hours and is designed to provide an environment of meditative sound.
Inspired by Indian ragas and forms, these performances were given in Northampton and Amherst Massachusetts and throughout New England, New York and Quebec Province between 1977 and 1983 in semi-darkened spaces that allowed listeners to relax on carpeting while being enveloped by sound. They gained in popularity and were soon attended by larger audiences. My final live performance took place at New York City's Alternative Museum in October, 1983.
This music is based on principles outlined in my book, The Healing Forces of Music: History, Theory and Practice, written between 1979 and 1983 and first published in 1987. It is available from Amazon, including a Kindle edition.
The name Rana means Sunbreath and has its origin in ancient philosophical concepts that recognized vibration as the fundamental creative force and central principle of the many mystery schools of the ancient world. It is evident that the use of sound for its spiritual properties was music's original purpose and a vital concept within these traditions. In the broadest sense, the practice of music for its healing and spiritual value remains our oldest music tradition.
These two compositions are selected for their meditational and healing abilities. EQ settings of treble and bass levels determine the music's effect upon you. Please explore until the most comfortable settings are found.