Keyi Xu - Sonic Fabric Weaving Rhythms of Dissonance

MANTIS (Manchester Theatre in Sound) festival, March 2025

Sonic Fabric Weaving Rhythms of Dissonance
Keyi Xu - 15,00 | Live AV
'This composition embarks on an innovative journey to explore the potential ofpercussive sounds within electroacoustic music, drawing inspiration from themechanical genius of Trimpin's Piano Vorsetzerand the rhythmic complexitychampioned by Conlon Nancarrow. By recontextualizing the automated mechanismsand integrating them with Nancarrow’s sophisticated rhythmic theories(Wannamaker,2012), the composition aims to uncover new dimensions of sonic expression. The focuslies on utilizing percussive instruments to articulate intricate rhythmic patterns, thuspushing the boundaries of instrumental musical expression into the realm ofelectroacoustic innovation. This endeavour not only pays homage to the avant-garde legacies of Trimpin and Nancarrow but also contributes to the ongoing discourse on the fusion of mechanical, acoustic, and EA music technologies.'

Keyi Xu
Keyi Xu is an innovative electronic music producer from Nanjing, China. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Electroacoustic Composition at the School of Arts,Languages and Cultures at the University of Manchester. His research focuses primarily on the interaction of electroacoustic interactive music with automated performance mechanisms, automatons, and the Internet of Things (IoT).Through his work, Keyi explores the dynamic relationship between technology andmusic, pushing the boundaries of sound creation and performance. His artistic endeavours aim to create immersive auditory experiences that engage audiences in novel ways.

Recorded, mixed and edited by: Guillaume Dujat
Thumbnail photo: Tanguy Pocquet