Heterodyning is the process by which two sine waves, tuned closely to
one another, can generate new frequencies and rhythms which are the
result of interference between these waves. This is normally heard as
“Moire Pattern“ is applying this process to the ‘cello. The ‘cello is
resonated by a transducer, turning its body into a loudspeaker. Using
this method, a single sinewave is played. Against this sine-wave, the
‘cellist is carefully listening and tempering their playing; adjusting
their intonation in microscopic intervals. Through doing this, they are
trying to create rhythmic patterns arising from the interference of
their ‘cello and the sine-wave. Both the performer and the audience are
able to perceive a sensitivity to pitch and intonation which would be
A Moire Pattern is an interference pattern created when two grids are overlaid at an angle.
First performed by Lucy Railton at London Topophobia 5, 14th November 2013.
Performed by Anton Lukoszevieze at Laura Bartlett Gallery, London, 6th November 2014; and Eric Moore in 2016.