2 ALBERT

Here is another variation of 'Sustain'. The important thing about this piece is putting two time scales together. On one level, the very slow movement of deep breathing, and on top of that, the very fast use of an instrument or voice as a sound source.

Following exactly the same procedure as for 'Sustain', instead of singing one long note on the exhale, sing or play as fast as possible. The sense of what you are playing is completely unimportant and should not even be thought about. Use your instrument as a tool to produce rapid 'scribbling'. Play speedily on the exhale only, and continue breathing in the same way as in 'Sustain' .

Another version of this piece (more suitable for Drama workshops) is to substitute words for musical sounds. Some people find it harder than others to produce a verbal 'stream of consciousness'. A possible aid is to begin by counting numbers out loud, and when people feel used to the sound of their voice within the group, to go on to words. Self consciousness is the main problem in this version of the piece.

This piece leads very naturally into collective improvisation - as you become aware of your sound within the overall sound of the group, you can begin to interact. The 'scribbling' and slow breathing gives plenty of time to react, and the interaction may be delayed as you finish your breath and inhale again. Gradually, allow the consciousness of your breathing to diminish, and take part in a free group improvisation. When inspiration runs low, return to the deep breathing and scribbling, and finish the piece on this.