Meditation

(c) + (p) 2007, Mark Belbin

A simple improvisation around a set of four notes, where the set is later found transposed up a fifth, giving the phrases a sense of question-and-answer when the original set is re-stated. This performance makes liberal use of the keyed portamento, using GVI's 'mono mode', with its extended portamento controls. These controls dictate the available bending ranges (See the FAQ for an explanation of the American Zither's bending abilities), portamento time controller, and morphing filter settings (which are only employed in this instrument for dynamics-not portamento reshaping). Though this demo used just the default portamento time, it ranges from a quick, "grace-note" syle bend to a slow ascent of about a second, allowing a variety of styles of vibrato and bends. Cathedral reverb was applied to give the piece an air of mysticism and spirituality.