Sound Pong: an Interactive Exploration of Sonic Space

Sound Pong is an electronic ensemble composition for four performers using four Wii-motes and four pairs of RecSpecs. The eight-channel work takes an historical look at the gaming experience through the use of modern controllers set inside a classic 8-bit aesthetic. Similar to the early video game Pong, or Robert Rauschenberg’s Open Score, an object is hit between players from in and around a dictated space. The sound field outlines the audience space and, by placing the performers within this space, helps to fuel audience interaction. A game-like interface projects onto the front wall, fusing both audience and performer spaces together, while simultaneously augmenting the audience’s interactive sensory experience.