CODE-TALKER

Code-Talker is an ongoing recording/live performance project that reclaims sacred spaces for the LGBTQ+ community. The name of the project derives from the “code-talker paradox,” which is an issue in linguistics that calls into question fundamental ideas about the nature of language. The term was coined in 2001 by linguist Mark Baker to analyze the Navajo code talkers of WWII. The premise of the paradox highlights the ways in which language can both assist and hinder communication. 

For me, the term code-talker evokes real-life instances of communication that is impeded both intentionally and unintentionally. I think about the translation from inspiration to the execution of a piece of music. I think about my everyday life as a gay man code-switching with family, friends, and strangers. I think about the Tower of Babel situation that is the virtual world.

This project began as a solo pipe organ meditation/installation as part of the Columbia University sacred music series in 2019. The recording of that concert was released as Code-Talker on the TripTicks Tapes label in 2021. Code- Talker II, with bassists Henry Fraser, was released on the Astral Spirits label in October of 2022.

On October 27th, 2022, the newest iteration of Code-Talker, including bassist Henry Fraser and clarinetist/composer John McCowen, performed at St. Paul’s Chapel at Columbia University. This performance, lasting for 2 hours, blurred the lines between sound sculpture and composition, ambient music and improvisation.