Future Music, Man and Machine – illustrated talk by Phineas Head

E-instruments have been around for a century. The ondes martenot in classical music, the Hammond organ in pop, synthesizers and samplers in horror film sound-tracks are a familiar part of the musical landscape. Composers use them as they might a violin or a clarinet. But the stochastic instruments developed by Phineas Head, researcher and lecturer at Plymouth’s Deep Blue Sound, are themselves composers…

Phin’s talk covers history in the first half – BBC Radiophonic Workshop, IRCAM etc. - and demonstrates the possibilities of collaborating with a machine after the interval. Should be a fascinating afternoon.

Phineas Head has lectured in electronic composition, composed, and played piano/keyboards throughout his performance and academic career. He plays Eurorack modular synthesis as 'Headcell', and founded his company Stochastic Instruments to produce instrument designs developed through this work, selling internationally and enjoying both a major international award and industry praise.