New from MTI's John Richards: Polytik synth!

"Dirty Electronics’ John Richards and graphic designer Jack Featherstone have created a new hand held synth"

http://www.thewire.co.uk/news/45334/new-modular-synth-set-to-hit-the-market

"A new hand held synth called Polytik is about to go public. The hybrid analogue/digital device was designed by Dirty Electronics’ John Richards and designer Jack Featherstone in collaboration with Artists & Engineers production and technology studio. It will be available as four separate colour-coded modules: blue (Core) is a sequencer, programmer and mixer; red (VCO) features voltage controlled feedback and voltage controlled oscillator; black (combi) features the same as red and includes filtering; and yellow (noise) has a noise generator, patchable feedback networks as well as VCF.

“Polytik is born out of a DIY ethos and the maker community,” state the manufacturers. “It uses open-source hardware and encourages users to make new modules and hacks, but Polytik has been crafted into something very different – a series of beautifully designed objects in their own right.”

The Core module is loaded with 30 pre-programmed sequences and more modules can be added. Furthermore there is a Golden Chip special edition pack which comes with an additional 20 sequences programmed by John Richards and a further 10 sequences with interviews and comments embedded in the code from musicians and artists including: Simian Mobile Disco, Mark Fell, Frieder Nake and Nik Colk Void & Gabe Gurnsey aka Factory Floor. The first modules will be available to buy this spring and available for pre-order via a Kickstarter campaign set for launch on 31 January. London Modular will also hold workshops with the synths. Details yet to be confirmed."

MTI congratulates doctoral graduate Neal Spowage

"CLASS OF 2017: Graduating with a PhD is music to Neal's ears"

"Almost 20 years after first setting foot on campus, Neal Spowage is delighted to have scored a doctorate from De Montfort University Leicester (DMU)."

http://www.dmu.ac.uk/about-dmu/news/2017/january/class-of-2017-graduating-with-a-phd-is-music-to-neal's-ears.aspx

MTI presents: Vibez Project

The De Montfort University Music, Technology & Innovation 2016-17 #LoveInternational concert series presents:

Vibez Project: Vibraphone & Electronics feat. Simon Limbrick

Wednesday February 1st, 7pm, DMU PACE
https://www.facebook.com/events/719794218185246/

A very special concert, featuring outstanding percussionist Simon Limbrick and the UK premiere of a new work by MTI's very own Bret Battey!

A performance-based project focused on the vibraphone, incorporating extended playing techniques, alternative compositional processes and technologies, including responsorial sound, visual media and sound diffusion. Each of the works in the programme explore a different approach to composing for the vibraphone.

Works by Battey, Limbrick, Stockhausen, Carpenter, Stewart, Vitkauskaite, Owen, & White.

PACE building, Richmond Street, Leicester UK, LE2 7BQ
Start time 7pm
Free entry

MTI celebrates: 50 Years of John Richards

MTI's first concert of 2017 was a celebration of '50 Years of John Richards', our beloved colleague, teacher, and friend. The concert included new works composed for the occasion by Leigh Landy, Andrew Hugill, and James Andean, as well as a wonderful range of performances from MTI staff and students, past and present, including the Man of the Hour himself.

Here are a few photographs from the evening:

Wednesday January 18th: MTI presents A Very Special Concert Extravaganza!

This coming Wednesday, January 18th, will be the first MTI concert of 2017!

It's a very special one, with performances by staff and students, past and present, and plenty of surprises. Don't miss it!

https://www.facebook.com/events/342072499518972/

PACE building, start time 7pm. Free entry.