Recently, I attended a three-day workshop called CLAIR / OBSCUR at experimental venue Instants chavirés in Montreuil, just outside Paris. Italian composer, performer, sound artist Alessandro Bosetti guided us through long sessions of immersion in complete darkness. The group included singers, musicians, and sound artists. Some used only voice, while others brought instruments (including a theramin and a persephone). I used my voice, sometimes singing unamplified, but mostly using a microphone and a Boss VE-20 vocal processor whose LED lights were taped over to achieve complete darkness. Operating the VE-20 in the dark was a challenge!

During the sessions, I discovered that removing visual stimulation allowed me to explore sounds with more freedom, playfulness and less inhibitions. My mind became more imaginative and sensitive when sound was the only way to communicate. Whispers, breathing, and silence were magnified. I made many discoveries about my voice during this workshop.

At the end of day three we concluded the workshop with a concert at Instants chavirés. The audience joined us in total darkness. Thanks to Alessandro Bosetti for a wonderful workshop. It was great to meet some new artists and I feel inspired to do more improvisations (maybe even with the lights on!)