Abstract:

This text discusses the notions of physical presence, perception and 'gestural' actions as an important element of a performance practice in electronic music. After discussing the meaning of the term 'gesture' in music and dance, a brief overview about current trends and methods in research is presented. The skills associated with the performance of electronic instruments are compared to those acquired with traditional instruments, for other physical performing arts such as dance and in technologically mediated art forms that extend the concept of the stage. Challenges and approaches for composing and performing electronic music are addressed and finally a tentative statement is made about embodiment as a quality and category to be applied to and perceived in electronic music performance.