The course deals with the historical and aesthetic background of electro-acoustic music combining acoustic instruments and electronic sounds. During the course we will analyze pieces by prominent composers from the last 70 years in order to gain insight into the philosophical and artistic processes behind their work. Additionally, we will learn about contemporary works that incorporate visual and theatrical performance elements and that make use of acoustic objects, which are not necessarily musical instruments.

Central questions that will be discussed throughout the course deal with the relationship between performer and electronics, between a sensitive, subjective human being and a precise, objective machine. How can one combine these two elements? Should the performer control the electronics or vice versa, or can a mutual relationship be established? Is the purpose of the electronics to stretch the limits of the instrument, to create a dialogue with the performer or to produce new social situations on stage?