The group drone

The group drone is a live music format aimed at resolving the tension between performer and audience. It involves a span of improvised ambient sound, which may remain rooted in a single key center or drift over time. Players going into a sound system can set up in advance, while those playing acoustically can drop=in at any time. Ideally, further "public" instruments open-tuned to the appropriate keys can be made available to attendees, to better encourage the spirit of free play. As opposed to a traditional concert, the musicians and audience occupy the same space, on the same level, de-emphasizing the boundary between creator and consumer, between active and passive. A "player" can step away from their gear, while an "attendee" can step in. All present are encouraged to make themselves comfortable in any way they see fit - stretching, drawing, knitting, writing, dancing contact improv, napping, etc.

May 25, 2025, Cyber Love Garden, Montreal QC

At the discretion of the organizer, the participating musicians can be curated and booked in advance, or left up to chance - first come, first served style. The current protocol at the monthly Cyber Love Garden drones involves an RSVP form so that a number of players reserve their spots ahead of time. This eases some of the stress of rushing for a spot, and allows us to prioritize first-time participants as well as those of marginalized backgrounds. While no one is officially conducting or steering the proceedings, one or more people should be keeping an eye on the mixer to keep things equalized, to control feedback, etc. Consistent listening and communication between all participants is vital to maintain balance.

The sleepover drone is a particular subset of the format: as implied, the music plays all night, at a volume low enough for sleeping. In an open, comfortable space, mats, blankets and pillows are arranged. Perhaps a canopy is hung and mood lighting is deployed, perhaps a night sky is projected above. Music can start anytime in the evening and will run past sunrise. Acts can be booked to play in half-hour or hour slots, and volunteers taking mixing shifts See write-ups on the Sleepover Drone here and here. see also: Field Guide for Effective Sleepover Droning, 1st ed, authored by La Plante Collective, April 2014.