The ocean’s physical nature, mystery, drama, mythology and concept have inspired art and culture throughout history and throughout the world. Mobilis in Mobili is the central axis of the larger electroacoustic work Trade Winds (2004-06) reworked into a self-contained composition inspired by this vast expanse of sea.

The title Mobilis in Mobili is from Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea (Vingt mille lieues sous les mers, 1869) by Jules Verne (1828-1905).

“Several times, during various lulls of wind and sea, I thought I heard indistinct sounds, a sort of elusive harmony produced by distant musical chords” “A few moments later, eight strapping fellows appeared and dragged us down into their fearsome machine.” “[…] suddenly plunged into darkness, utter darkness. The ceiling lights went out so quickly, my eyes literally ached.” “[…] a sliding sound became audible. You could tell that some panels were shifting over the Nautilus’s sides” “Suddenly, through two oblong openings, daylight appeared on both sides of the lounge.” “What a sight! What pen could describe it? Who could portray the effects of this light through these translucent sheets of water, the subtlety of its progressive shadings into the ocean’s upper and lower strata?”

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Mobilis in Mobili was realized in 2006 at the composer’s studio and premiered on June 8, 2006 during Synthèse, the 36th Bourges Electronic Music and Creation International Festival (France). (The original Trade Winds was commissioned by Notam (Norsk nettverk for Teknologi, Akustikk og Musikk / Norwegian network for Technology, Acoustics and Music) with funds from the Norsk Kulturråd (Arts Council Norway) and the Norsk Komponistforening (Norwegian Society of Composers).) Thanks to Storm Weather Shanty Choir (sea shanty extract), and Jon Varhus (captain of the Anne Christina).

Premiere

• June 8, 2006, Synthèse 2006: Concert, Bourges (Cher, France)