ResearchWorks: Towards a New Electro-Acoustic Music Practice: Forming a Balanced Interplay

In contemporary music practice, technology and its artefacts exert a significant influence on acoustic music. Even when an acoustic instrument is amplified, the auditory experience, perception of sound, and quality of acoustic details shift. When electronic signal processing and electroacoustic compositions considered, it becomes evident that technological artefacts can dominate and often overshadow the acoustic qualities and musical nuances of a performance.

Building on this premise, this topic explores the integration of acoustic and electronic elements in contemporary music compositions, delving into the concept of 'balanced interplay in electroacoustic music.' This concept emphasises the utilisation of technology's powerful features while preserving and celebrating the acoustic qualities and physical intelligence of music making.

This discussion will delve into the complexities of achieving harmony and symbiosis between these two domains, exploring the challenges and opportunities inherent in this interdisciplinary practice, drawing upon both theoretical frameworks and practical applications. Attendees will have the opportunity to gain insights into the evolving landscape of electroacoustic music practice, as well as to engage in critical discussions surrounding the psychoacoustic implications and aesthetic considerations of such hybrid approaches.

Speaker

Utkucan Eken is a London-based composer, sound and media artist, with expertise in new media, film, and TV projects. Born in Izmir, Turkey, Utku began his musical journey with piano and cello lessons. He furthered his education with a degree in music technology from Yildiz Technical University in Istanbul. Later, he moved to London and completed an MA in Audio Production at the University of Westminster, earning distinction and receiving the John Leckie Award for Innovation in Audio Production.

Throughout his career, Utku has adeptly combined acoustic and electronic elements across diverse genres. His music has been featured in numerous films, some of which have garnered recognition at esteemed film festivals such as Berlinale and the Cannes Film Festival. His contributions extend to projects that have aired on platforms such as Sky Arts, ITV, and Netflix, with notable mentions like the BAFTA-nominated documentary "The Crossing”.

In the academic realm, he has been a lecturer in “Sound Design and Synthesis” and “Composing for Media” at the University of Westminster and University of Arts London. His current research focuses on forming a balanced interplay between electronic and acoustic realms of sound in electroacoustic music practice.

Guildhall School’s ResearchWorks is a programme of events centred around the School’s research activity, bringing together staff, students and guests of international standing. We run regular events throughout the term intended to share the innovative research findings of the School and its guests with students, staff and the public.