5500

In the period between June 2014 and June 2015, at least 5.500 immigrants have died trying to reach Europe from Africa, across the Mediterranean Sea. 5500 is a data visualization piece, consisting on a performance of Ludwig van Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 8 in C minor, Op. 13, commonly known as Sonata Pathétique, intervened with a representation of these deaths. To achieve this, the pianist’s execution is intervened using computer-controlled electrodes that stimulate the nerves in his arms, causing involuntary contractions of muscles, and affecting the final musical result. The performance is accompanied by a graphical representation of the The performance was premiered on the 1st of July, at the School of Arts of the University of the Republic, in Montevideo, Uruguay, with pianist Bruno Benedetto.