Portfolio of electroacoustic music compositions: self as a method, an exploration of the creative process

Abstract

My PhD research explores how personalized experiences influence the creative process, encompassing decision making, critical thinking, reflections, and other related aspects. This written commentary introduces “self as a method, an exploration of the creative process”, presenting a portfolio of six original electroacoustic music works created as part of the doctoral research at Queen’s University Belfast. The works included are Atmo-, Immemorial/Flux, Metamorphosis, Parallel Visions, Touch, and Unfolding.

The portfolio showcases a diverse array of formats: one 7.1.4 work, one 8-channel, one stereo, one 10-channel, and two works for solo instruments with electronics - one for guzheng and another for piano. Except for two, all compositions are acousmatic, with the mixed works drawing on timbre-based composition and acousmatic tradition.

The commentary provides readers with in-depth information on my compositional strategies for each work, referencing current musicological terminology and contextual writings in the field. Additionally, the accompanying oral presentation video offers a comprehensive overview, providing insights into my artistic endeavors and reflections on finding my voice through practice-based research from the perspectives of creator, performer, and researcher.

Date of Award	Dec 2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Queen's University Belfast
Sponsors	British Council & China Scholarship Council
Supervisor	Michael Alcorn (Supervisor) & Pedro Rebelo (Supervisor)