Laura Altman is based in Sydney on Gadigal Country, where she weaves her way through the improvised, exploratory and folk music scenes with her intuitive clarinet playing, free improvising, songs and compositions.

Laura has developed a solo improvisation practice that involves her unique approach to the clarinet underpinned by a curiosity with resonance and feedback, using speakers, microphones, tins and objects. She has also been writing songs with voice and guitar that are beginning to find their way into the world.

In this performance at Local Edition, Laura will present both of these solo practices side by side for the first time. She is personally interested in observing and exploring how they might influence each other, interrelate, or be conduits for the same inspirational source, finding different forms of expression. In what ways could the idea of ‘resonance’, with all its possible meanings, be a fundamental thread that connects these seemingly disparate musical practices?

Some background:

Laura studied composition at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music where she now teaches composition and improvisation. Her song-writing and arranging have featured in the music of ARIA-nominated ensemble Chaika, in which Laura has played clarinet and sung with for over a decade. As an improviser she has performed with a multitude of ensembles including internationally acclaimed Great Waitress, who have released four albums, most recently back, before on label Splitrec. She is a long-standing member of improvising collective Splinter Orchestra, which has nurtured her curiosity for sonic exploration, encouraged an expansive listening practice, and emphasised the importance of play and community in music-making. Laura co-hosts the radio program Listening Space on Eastside 89.7FM and coordinates the online exploratory music directory and newsletter emus.space.