Living Instruments, Universal Composition: New Works and Accessible Music Processes for and by Disabled Musicians

Lead Research Organisation: Manchester Metropolitan University
Department Name: School of History of Art and Design

Abstract

This proposal is for a portfolio of works and documentation of compositional processes. Created in
association with Drake Music, exploring new instruments and processes, placing accessibility first in
the composition process. It will interrogate and highlight the value of experimental music systems for
disabled musicians, including guided improvisation; artificial intelligence; alternative notation, and
collaborative composition. The three primary aims of this portfolio, resulting performances and
documentation are to:
1) Develop sustainable creative processes built on the social model of disability,
2) Create new works for accessible musical instruments,
3) Explore the role and impact of artificial intelligence in new and accessible music.
The outputs will include new scores, recordings and performances/installations, informed by regular
workshops, shared documentation and research.

Publications

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