Workshop: Playground rituals

Hopscotch, Jump Rope, Rock Paper Scissors… Lead by composer and improviser Helen Papaioannou, we’ll explore how the algorithms that govern these children’s games can be transformed into musical pieces. We’ll map their rules and possible outcomes onto graphic scores, and navigate these interaction patterns ourselves in musical performance. These games focus on signalling, group communication, memory and reflexes, as we work together to coordinate a human step sequencer. We’ll be developing the sounds together using an assortment of percussion and found objects.

This would be of interest to anyone who enjoys games or wonky rhythms, and particularly to those interested in group dynamics, performance or music. No musical or performance experience is required!

Feel free to bring percussion and sound makers (which don’t require amplification).

Following the workshop, we’ll perform the pieces that we develop in a short, informal performance.

AlgoMech is Sheffield's Festival of Algorithmic and Mechanical Arts, funded by Arts Council England, Arts and Humanities Research Council, European Research Council, Sheffield City of Ideas, and Sheffield Making Ways. For the latest information including timetable and tickets, please see algomech.com.

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