Were you trying to get a hold of me for a while?

Were you trying to get a hold of me for a while? is a solo opera for voice and electronics by Guðmundur Steinn Gunnarsson.

Act I: Laberico Narabida
Four voices speak through a single “loudspeaker,” which is the human voice. We hear voices. We hear examples of various voices coming through one. The voices are not from the same person. Some are insecure, others have great self-confidence. Some speak in a high register with anoperatic tone, while others mumble and speak casually, hesitantly, or in half-formed sounds—almost jibberish. These four voices are loosely associated with four symbolic traits as found in various ancient medical systems, spiritual and esoteric doctrines (such as the four humors, the elements, the first four chakras, astrology, the land spirits of Icelandic folklore, Jungian archetypes, etc.). The person is conflicted, trapped in a dilemma, and cannot find their way home. "Still, let me try, let me try."

Act II: Chattering in the Ditch
"Chattering in the Ditch" is a kind of descent—a downward spiraling repetition. The voice seeks resonance with itself. What was once simple now becomes complex. What was once complex now becomes simple. To compose is to seek harmony. In negotiating composing actions between elemental forces, some form of agreement must be reached— at least temporarily, for now.

Act III: Adibaran Ocirebal
In the final act, the four elements seek balance. They appear as four characters, each of whom inhabits the singer. After struggling for attention, the characters attempt reconciliation and even fusion—but this proves impossible. The piece explores space—positioning of sounds within the voice itself, how the two interact and resonate. The electronics always act as an extension or amplification of what the voice is trying to get through. Can anyone be reached, ever? Is there anything of meaning ever really communicated between two or more people? Is there any such thing as communicating and understanding.