“Lol-Ha, audiovisual biomusic” is an immersive interdisciplinary concert of mixed electroacoustic music for multipercussion, electronic sounds, and real-time visuals that will take spectators on a journey through the underground aquatic world of the cenotes in the Yucatán Peninsula, said percussionist and member of the Hifa Collective, Carmen Maldonado.
What is Lol-Ha about?
It is a presentation that involves different disciplines, based on the ecological relationship between the cenotes in the state of Yucatán and some species of bats that inhabit them, where characteristics such as flow, vegetation, the current conditions of the place, and its modifications by non-human and human species serve as inspiration for this abstract representation of the natural ecosystem.
Why is it called biomusic?
Because it involves creating a sound composition based on the sounds extracted from the cenotes, especially those of the cavernous type. We took acoustic samples from different locations in the community where these cenotes are found, and then mixed them with electronic music and live musical instruments.
How will the visual elements be?
It will be an abstract form for the audience to feel immersed in them. It is not meant to be a literal representation of a cenote, but rather an immersive sensory journey. When you are inside the presentation, you can feel like any element, a bat, a drop of water, whatever you imagine in that moment.
What work is behind this presentation?
For months, we conducted our own research and gathered information from biologists who have studied the cenotes, all based on real data that we want to present in a sensitive way. The research was carried out in the community of Yaxunah, at the Lol-Ha cenote, which inspired the name of the presentation.
Who are involved in the project?
This is a project of the Hifa Collective, composed of composer David Puc, who will be in the booth, visual artist Mónica Mitre, and myself on percussion, being the only one appearing on stage.
When and where will it take place?
Lol-Ha will have a series of performances on July 7, 8, and 19 at 8:00 PM at the Auditorium of the Mérida Olimpo Cultural Center and is part of the Municipal Fund for Established Artists of the Mérida City Council. Tickets will cost 100 pesos for general admission, with discounts available for students and individuals with an Inapam credential.
Lol-Ha
It is an artistic composition about groundwater inspired by the ecology of Yucatan and that seeks to raise awareness about this resource.
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