Paul Amitai: Trope Variations

Trope Variations uses an ancient system of musical notation as the basis for live vocal improvisation. A set of thirty short melodies are the building blocks of the performance, which are arranged and interpreted in new ways every time it’s performed. Melodic patterns are shaped in real-time through a custom-built audio sequencer, which uses images to play and loop vocal samples. The result is a distinctive approach to structured improvisation, where both vocal samples and live vocalizations are layered and processed to create lush, ambient soundscapes. Situated between extended-duration sound performances, loop-based minimalism, and immersive sound baths, Trope Variations is an exploration in redefining how the sacred or sublime might sound. --- Paul Amitai is a New York based artist and musician who has exhibited and performed internationally, and shared the stage with legends such as Run-DMC and The Specials. Over the past decade, he's put out a series of ambient releases built from live vocal improvisations, including First Light in 2024. Amitai was formerly senior curator at Eyebeam Art & Technology Center and currently leads the sound design studio, Listen.