| NIUCMS
Electronic/Computer Music
History
The NIU electronic-music studios began in 1968
under
direction and development of G. Al O'Connor, Jan Bach
and Paul Steg. First facilities included a Moog modular
synthesizer, a Putney synthesizer (the one with the
joy stick) an Arp 2600 and various tape machines.
In the '70s a Buchla Electric Music Box system was
installed which offered digital control of a very
powerful analog synthesis system. A PDP-11 computer
was used for computer control.
Joe Pinzarrone joined the faculty in the late 70's
and continued development of the studios and program.
NIU hosted many very influential composers/performers
in the field, a tradition which continues to this day.
During this time the Neoteric Ensemble was formed and
involved other composers/performers on faculty. They
acquired a reputation for fresh, inventive performance-
art forms including multi/mixed media works.
In 1990 Jim Phelps joined the NIU Music faculty
as
Director of the studios and began updating the facilities
and program. NIUCMS (Northern Illinois University Computer
Music Studios) currently offers students contemporary
technology with which to create a broad spectrum of works
including multimedia, realtime/interactive computer-music,
multi-channel digital works as well as dramatic works.
The Annex Group is an experimental, computer-music ensemble
consisting of students studying computer music and presents
at least one concert every year consisting of a diverse
offering of styles and mediums.
NIU offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees
emphasizing
computer music and new-media technology under, respectively,
the Contract Major and Individualized Studies programs.
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