“What is the work of art? Is it the machine? The software?"

Interview with the composer Volkmar Klien about the limitless possibilities of computer music, the paradigm shift in training and practice - and his aversion to ready-made sound software.

Abstract

The culture-ressort of Medienimpulse introduces leading actors in media in a series of interviews. The workshop talks focus on artistic positions and media technology developments, questions about working conditions, archiving and education. Volkmar Klien was fascinated by Vienna’s musical life, by the traditions and rituals, from an early age. Nevertheless, since then he has tried to expand the possibilities of composing, making music and listening beyond any classicism. Klien is professor of composition and head of the media composition/computer music department at the Anton Bruckner Private University in Linz, where a new master’s degree on post-digital instrument making will start this autumn. He spoke with the Medienimpulse about the limitless possibilities of computer music, the paradigm sift in training and practice – and his aversion to ready-made sound software.