Title: Vocality in Transculturalism
Abstract: This presentation explores the intersection of vocality, transculturalism, and musical creativity through my collaborative work with Bangkok-based ensemble TACETi. Rooted in compositional methodologies, the discussion examines the voice as a medium for theatricality, an expansion of instrumental technique, and a conduit for cultural exchange. Drawing from works such as The Testimony of John Paton, Engines of Babel, and A Single Tree is Not Called a Forest, I interrogate how the voice of instrumental performers can be integrated into contemporary works. Central to this is the integration of linguistic heritages - Ulster-Scots and Northern Thai - into a unified musical narrative, emphasizing the role of the voice in fostering intercultural dialogue. These works highlight the transformative potential of vocality in dissolving boundaries, bridging artistic traditions, and crafting a shared creative space.
Bio: Anselm McDonnell (1994) is an Irish/Welsh composer. His music has been performed in sixteen countries and includes commissions by the London Symphony Orchestra, the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, the National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland, Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival, BBC Concert Orchestra, the Crash Ensemble, Hard Rain SoloistEnsemble, BBC Singers, BBC Radio 3, British Council, and NCH Dublin. His music has been played at NCH Dublin, LSO St. Luke’s (6 performances), Wigmore Hall, Covent Gardens, Maida Vale Studios, Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival, Hugh Lane Gallery (4 performances), and New Music Dublin Festival (10 performances). He has held residencies at the London Symphony Orchestra (Jerwood + composer for 2023/24), Centre Culturel Irlandais in Paris (Oct/Nov 23), Belfast City Council (2022), and TACETi Ensemble in Bangkok (Jun 23). His BBC Music Magazine interview featured in their March 2024 issue. His compositions have been described as 'abrasive and compelling' (Irish Times), 'bright as fluorescent light’ (Journal of Music), ‘a wide musical imagination with a vision to match’ (Morning Star), and 'vivid and fascinating.' (Robert Hugill) He is one of three Irish composers commissioned for BBC Radio 3’s 25 for 2025 project, alongside Gerald Barry and Donnacha Dennehy, writing for the BBC Singers.