System 50:50 as a compositional tool for free improvisers, in performance, in the studio, online and offline.
Although the project is called System 50:50, in practice the ratio of free play to tacet can be varied and different proportions explored. In practice 50:50 or 1:1 ratio is used less and less, especially as ensemble sizes grow. Varying the clock timings allows participants to explore the way changing the parameters affects the sonic outcome, and promotes engaged listening and aesthetic judgment. Some of the ways the system
has been explored (in practice sessions, workshops and concerts) is in other sections here.
Once players are comfortable with the use of the clocks System 50:50 has proved to be a very useful tool. By far the majority of participants using System 50:50 have found the process musically enjoyable and encouraging of creativity. Do look at the other sections, but the very best way to understand this is to give it a try!