Deep Listening Night

In the 1960s and 70s composers such as Xenakis, Babbitt and Stockhausen were delighted by the unprecedented potential of modular synthesizers. Instruments from manufacturers such as EMS, Buchla, Moog and Serge changed the way classical music was composed and performed. Artists suddenly had the freedom to produce sounds that had never been heard before. During this Deep Listening Night, new work for the iconic EMS Synthi 100 will be set alongside synth legend Suzanne Ciani. Ukrainian Heinali draws inspiration from (Flemish) polyphony. And Cinna Peyghamy combines the tombak (Persian drum) with the modular synthesizer in a search for unparalleled sonic and melodic sound worlds. Workshops, an exhibition with module manufacturers and a lecture on the EMS Synthi complete the immersion. Put together your own evening, full of special, short listening experiences!

On the programme

Suzanne Ciani  / Diva of the Diode (Concertzaal)

Suzanne Ciani is undoubtedly one of the greatest living legends of the analogue synthesizer and electronic music. In her early years, this American synth-pioneer furthered the development of that innovative instrument with her melodious but unpredictable sound explorations. Five Grammy nominations later, she is back with her first love, the Buchla modular synthesizer. 

Rashad Becker, Floris Vanhoof & Natasha Pirard / EMS Synthi 100 (Kamermuziekzaal)

During its manufacturing run – between 1971 and 1977 – only 30 copies of the EMS Synthi 100 were made. A handful of these modular synthesizers are still operational. One of them is owned by IPEM (UGent). Three very different musicians create new work for this futuristic colossus. 

Heinali / Organa (Studio 1)

Ukrainian Heinali (Oleh Shpudeiko) reinterprets (Flemish) polyphony, borrowing techniques and ideas from 12th and 13th-century composers and theorists. In his concerts, he explores the overlap of technology and sacredness, past and present, predestination and chance. Polyphony as you have never heard it before. 

Cinna Peyghamy / Tombak & synths (Studio 1)

With his hybrid setup of Persian tombak and modular synths, Cinna Peyghamy explores new horizons. The result is a sultry dialogue between tradition and experiment, and between complex rhythms and exotic colours, done in all subtlety, but at times overwhelmingly explosive.

Lecture-performance / EMS Synthi 100 (Kamermuziekzaal)

Some people get lost in the complexity of the EMS Synthi 100, others are thrilled by its limitless potential. Bart Moens and Ivan Schepers guide us through the history and endless applications of this unique instrument. Discover a unique piece of music history up close.