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2 May 2008

The Importance of Being Analogue

Scientist in tune with Futuresonic

A UNIVERSITY scientist is swapping theories for theremins at Manchester electronic festival Futuresonic.

Computer scientist Jim O’Shea is going all Brian Eno and hosting an interactive radiophonic gig of ‘the sounds of analogue’, at Manchester Metropolitan University Student’s Union, Oxford Road on May 3.

The event is half exhibition, half display, punctuated by improvised electronic music performance from a band of Manchester’s electronic musicians. The public audience is invited to circulate between the participants’ booths and to 'feel the noize' as it is being generated.

Part of the annual Futuresonic Urban Festival of Art, Music and Ideas, the event is the brainchild of O’Shea, course leader for MMU’s computer music technology course.

"The Importance of Being Analogue" explores the enduring love affair that we have with analogue technology, says O’Shea.

"Think of this event as a multi-lane pile-up on the information superhighway as analogue collides with VST in an improvised public performance exhibition. It’s a chance for analogue addicts to dust off their synths and twiddle their knobs with pride."

Social Networks

Performers at the event have been recruited using the latest social networking techniques. Participants so far include: The Chorlton Radiophonic Workshop, GNOD, Nachtsmeer, Fonik, Modulator, Sam and the Plants and special guest Hypnotique, who has produced the theremin radio documentary "Into the Ether".


Notes to Editors

Manchester Metropolitan University offers a 3 year BA / BSc Combined Honours Computer Music Technology that includes units in Advanced Programming, Sound and TV Studios, Human-Computer Interaction.

MMU, in partnership with the University of Manchester, Salford University, the Museum of Science and Industry, and Manchester: Knowledge Capital is a designated 'Beacon for Public Engagement'. Part of a HEFCE, RCUK, Wellcome Trust & NWDA-backed initiative to change the way that Higher Education listens to, and responds to the needs of communities.

For more information contact Sam Gray s.gray@mmu.ac.