Beyond Rhythm: Exploring Infinite Possibilities in Music, Movement and Choreography-Hands Percussion Malaysia

Abstract

One of the similarities between the ideas and philosophies underlying the musical compositions of John Cage and Hands Percussion Malaysia (HANDS) is their desire to explore musical  sounds beyond the conventional and cultural norms of their time. Cage utilised Asian philosophy as inspiration for his aleatoric and chance music compositions, while HANDS fused sound art with movement. Founded on shi gu (shi: lion, gu: drum) drumming, movement and choreography, HANDS now experiments with a variety of musical instruments from various cultures to expand on the sounds and timbres produced in their performances. They merge extracts of musical elements from selected musical cultures, rhythmic drumming, and synchronised creative movements into their concert pieces. Some aspects of HANDS compositions are based on interculturalism, but many are new creations that decontextualise the musical instrument from its essentialised cultural-musical context. Based on interviews with HANDS’ artistic director and members, this article examines the socio-cultural context that inspired the themes and ideas embedded in the avant-garde music and choreography of HANDS’ previous concerts. The background to the socio-cultural context of HANDS’Generation X, Y and Z musicians is supported by literature reviews.