Starting today through Friday, the Universitiy’s Department of Music is hosting the 26th annual Technosonics music festival. This event, which is free to attend, celebrates the art of computer music that has thrived here for years. Expect a mix of electronic tunes, stunning visuals, improvisation, and even some unique instruments crafted by the musicians themselves.
The lineup includes talented graduate students, faculty, and headliners like Lauren Sarah Hayes, Ben Broening, and Travis Thatcher. Broening, a Richmond musician, approaches sound in an innovative way. “I focus on how sound connects to a place, spending time recording the everyday sounds around me,” he explained. His latest album, “Fieldwork,” features tracks built from global recordings.
The University has a rich history in electronic music, dating back nearly a century. Arthur Fickenscher, the first chair of the Department of Music, was an inventor of electronic instruments. In 2002, the university established the Composition and Computer Technologies (CCT) program to deepen its commitment to this art form.
This year’s festival will feature performances both on campus and in the surrounding area. Studio 4B at the Contemplative Commons Center includes a high-tech sound system with 20 speakers and reactive lighting, providing an immersive experience for listeners. Alex Christie, the current CCT director, highlighted how the audio and visual elements work together. “The space allows composers to create music that moves through and interacts with the audience,” he said.
Each afternoon, from 2 to 5 p.m., students can enjoy performances designed to complement the venue’s visual aspects. In the Old Cabell Hall Auditorium, “Concert 1” kicks off on Tuesday at 8 p.m., featuring Hayes, known for her unique blend of electronic and pop music.
Wednesday brings “Concert 2” at Visible Records at 8 p.m., showcasing Hayes alongside others, including Thatcher. An electronic instrument inventor himself, Thatcher will perform “Let’s Eat Bananas For Lunch,” using innovative techniques to create a lively audio experience. “It’s a blend of playful sounds, inspired by both science fiction and modern music,” he described.
This festival reflects nearly a century of growth and creativity at the university, offering a fresh take on traditional music intertwined with cutting-edge technology. Attending is a chance to witness unique performances, from classical instrument improvisations to high-tech audio-visual displays. The best part? It’s all free!
