Analogue to digital: Authenticiy vs. sustainability in Stockhausen's Mantra (1970)

The authors introduce and examine the digitization process of a classic work for two pianos and live electronics by Karlheinz Stockhausen, Mantra (1970). Originally written for custom-designed analogue ring modulators, pianos and percussion, Mantra presents many challenges to the contemporary performer wishing to program the work. Problems and solutions are discussed in this realization of the original electronic processing in a digital computer-based version. The authors argue the merits of presenting this rarely performed piece in an accessible and sustainable format while taking into account considerations of authentic performance practice and studying the earlier analogue technology. Conclusions are drawn based on preparations for the 2008 tour by the Pestova/Meyer piano duo (Xenia Pestova / Pascal Meyer)1.