Stahlstuhl realizes sound performances with school chairs. An unusual manipulation transforms this ordinary object into a musical instrument with its own esthetics.

The constrained sound palette, resulting from the interaction of wood and metal, is nuanced by the particularities of each chair, as every object presents its unique sonority. The diversity of sound palette is also assured by an instrumental action combining multiple gestures, such as dragging and percussion.

Moreover, the sound sources are processed in real time with a computer, building ever-changing rhythmical structures. This electroacoustic treatment is projected into the listener’s space, enfolding the public in a dynamic system of sounds.

Founding members of Stahlstuhl are the performer-­musician Olavo Vianna, and Emanuele Battisti who works on the live electronics. The duo often collaborates with guest artists (musicians, dancers, video­makers).

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