I am sitting in a room different from the one you are in now: composing music for telematic resources

PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Telematic low latency technologies have been explored in relation to performance and recording, but the opportunities opened up for a composer have been comparatively neglected. Twenty-five years after the first performance of Karlheinz Stockhausen’s Helikopter-Streichquartett, the School of Arts and Creative Industries is looking to support students in creating a portfolio of composition, installations, sound art, and/or improvisation that exploits the specific potential of low-latency audio and visual connectivity.

Sound and music have the power to evoke different places and spaces through resonance and other acoustic phenomenon. This PhD is an opportunity for a student to spend time exploring different acoustic spaces, assessing the contrast between them, and then responding to them in a creative medium. This offers rich opportunities for researchers interested in pursuing an auto-ethnographic methodology, and engaging with focus groups to gather qualitative data about this mode of musical experience. We are excited at the prospect of working with students who will wish to engage with the technological application of different telematic strategies and be open to the attendant aesthetics and philosophy that they evoke.

The School has a broad range of creative musicians working in many genres and a lively practice research culture with a solid track record of composition PhDs. You will encouraged to join in discussions and present your work to other music researchers, to participate in shared performance opportunities, and to contribute to the musical life of the University. Your professional development, whether you are looking to pursue a career in academic life or within the music industry, will be supported by activities such as opportunities to teach undergraduate students, participation in masterclasses, and receiving advice from prominent industry specialists.

This project can be undertaken either by a full-time or a part-time student.

Academic qualifications
A first degree (at least a 2.1) ideally in music or sound art with a good fundamental knowledge of composition and creativity.

English language requirement
IELTS score must be at least 6.5 (with not less than 6.0 in each of the four components). Other, equivalent qualifications will be accepted. Full details of the University’s policy are available online.

Essential attributes:
• Experience of fundamental practice-based research methods in music
• Competent in conceptualisation of ideas related to sound and/or music
• Knowledge of own creative process and understanding of effective creative strategies
• Good written and oral communication skills
• Strong motivation, with evidence of independent research skills relevant to the project
• Good time management

Desirable attributes:
Experience of compositions, installations, sound art, and/or improvisations that employ telematic resources; experience of working with technology to develop creative practice appropriate to the setting; understanding of theoretical frameworks to interrogate and contextualise creative work.