Erik NystromView profile
Lecturer
Erik Nystrom is a composer and academic at City, University of London, specifically affiliated with City St George's, where he conducts research and artistic work in electroacoustic and computer music. His practice centers on multichannel sound, spatial texture, and live interactive performance using algorithmic systems. He previously held a Leverhulme Early Career Fellowship at the University of Birmingham’s BEAST studio, contributing significantly to spatial synthesis and performance aesthetics. Education: PhD in Electroacoustic Music, City University, London (supervised by Denis Smalley) MA in Electroacoustic Music, City University, London (supervised by Denis Smalley) Erik’s research explores the intersection of human and machine agency in improvisation, focusing on post-human cognition, nonconscious processes, and the concept of intra-action. His work integrates machine learning, agent-based systems, and real-time synthesis, particularly through the SuperCollider environment. He investigates how algorithmic systems can co-create with human performers, generating emergent sonic textures through feedback and listening behaviors. Key themes include spatial sound, acousmatic improvisation, and the philosophical underpinnings of technological creativity. His 15 most recent works and publications reveal a strong trend toward algorithmic improvisation, cognitive assemblages, and spatial synthesis. The articles and compositions emphasize machine learning, real-time interaction, and the blurring of composition and performance. Subfields such as post-human attractors, topographic synthesis, and listening agents dominate his recent output, reflecting a deep engagement with both technical innovation and philosophical inquiry in music. Scientific Awards: Leverhulme Early Career Fellowship (2015–2018) The Merciful Company Cordwainer's Prize for Outstanding Achievement on the MA Programme Mercer's Music Prize for Most Outstanding Achievement on the PhD Programme Audience Prize at Metamorphoses International Electroacoustic Composition Competition, Brussels (2010) Erik has advised no formal students listed in the text, but his research has been supported through competitive grants such as the Leverhulme Fellowship. He has presented his work globally at major conferences including ICMC, SMC, NIME, and Beyond Humanism. His compositions have been released by empreintes DIGITALes and performed at institutions like the University of Oxford and De Montfort University. He is actively involved in creative labs and research teams, notably through his work with BEAST (Birmingham Electroacoustic Sound Theatre) and participation in symposia such as the IKO/OSIL Symposium in Graz, Austria. His current practice involves developing interactive systems for live spatial performance, often involving collaborative electroacoustic composition with intelligent agents.
