Music

Interactive Music Systems

Module code: W3081
Level 5
15 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Workshop
Assessment modes: Coursework

You will explore the use of interactivity in performance contexts with strong technological components. The topics of live electronics, hyper-instruments, sound art installations, audiovisual performance systems and multi-channel spatial sound will be covered through practical exercises and projects. The relationship between acoustic instruments and live electronics, as practiced over the past decades, will be studied together with 20th century notation practices. The concepts of embodiment, improvisation and collaboration in performance contexts are explored through theoretical and practical seminars and workshops.

The module includes a hardware-building component using the popular Arduino technology amongst others. You will learn the basics of electronics together with soldering and hardware hacking. You will create an instrument or an interactive live electronics system for musical expression, focussing on the performance element of electronic music.

Module learning outcomes

• demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the principles involved in creating music technology as applied in composition practice
• identify and practice the technical skills at an intermediate level necessary to advance their practice
• develop an extended body of experimental work, supported by secondary research used to underpin the critical practice-based approach
• demonstrate a practical and theoretical understanding of the use of digital, hybrid and/or acoustic instruments within a live electronic setup