Ernie Althoff
Ernie Althoff builds music machines from wood, metal, glass and plastic, setting materials in motion by hand or small motors to make shifting percussive soundscapes underpinned by drone.
The instruments often sound different each time they run, and he has made graphic scores so others can play them. His work moves between motor-driven and solar-powered machines and live performance, treating physical systems as the score. On record he also appears as a voice in large-space Australian contemporary works. The result is intricate and complex, yet open and calming.
Ernie Althoff appears on
Reverberations
Originally released on two LPs and even quadraphonic tape in the early 1970s, this double CD set is a special limited edition re-issue of Reverberations One and Two, containing contemporary music for organ, brass ensemble, voices, didjeridu and electronics.