Michael Alcorn

Michael Alcorn is a Professor and Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor at Queen’s University Belfast, leading the School of Music & Sonic Arts. He specializes in electroacoustic music, instrumental composition, and new media practices. His work integrates live electronics with traditional instruments, exemplified in pieces like Deconstructions in Metal. Since 1989, he has been affiliated with Queen’s, where he pioneered the Music Technology pathway and co-founded the Sonic Arts Research Centre (SARC).

• Roles: Professor, Head of School, Former Director of SARC
• External Roles: Music Co-ordinator (ICMA 2003–2007), Director of Tyrone Guthrie Centre (2002–2012)

Research focuses on brass band history in Ireland (since 1850), new repertoire development, and digital music interfaces. His compositions blend acoustic and electronic elements, performed globally. He has held major grants, including the Creative Industries Cluster Programme (2019–present) and Creative Exchange Lab (2014–present).

Notable achievements include commissions from BBC, Ulster Orchestra, and leadership in international music festivals. His work contributes to UN SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities) through cultural heritage preservation.