FREE EVENT at Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge St.

Words From the Master Recordist

Much is made of extended instrumental techniques in New Music, but relatively little analysis has been devoted to the final, crucial step between sound source and audience: the sound engineer.

The Music Gallery’s 38-year history has one constant: Technical Director Paul Hodge. He has been behind the sound board for almost every concert the Music Gallery has undertaken, plus engineered almost all recordings on the Music Gallery Editions label. Most people in Toronto’s new music community know him to work with him, but he has seldom stepped into the spotlight to explain and analyze his work with an incredibly diverse range of sound sources.

Paul’s knowledge of microphone techniques and mixing strategies is outstanding and thorough. Whether you are a new music enthusiast, budding recordist or a fan of unusual sounds in general, there will be much to learn from his anecdotes and recordings. Mastery of microphone technique is a skill that applies to all forms of contemporary music making.

The 30-minute event will consist of historical context, listening examples with commentary, visual examples of microphone placement and demonstrations of microphone technique with Continuum Contemporary Music, our co-hosts of this edition of New Music 101.

About New Music 101: New Music 101 is a three-part series of free interactive public education presentations that highlight new directions in music creation and performance: chamber and electronic music, sound art, and interdisciplinary projects are just some of the areas being explored. You will meet some of the most celebrated artists in Toronto, and discover the next generation of musicians and composers who are active in the city. The series will be hosted by John Terauds. Terauds writes about classical music and opera at musicaltoronto.org and is freelance classical music critic for the Toronto Star.