Abstract
In his debut visit to Hong Kong, the preeminent French composer Philippe Manoury uncovers the transformative impact of digital technology on music composition in this lecture. A pioneer in the field, Manoury delves into the philosophical and technical dimensions of the application of ‘real-time electronics,’ addressing questions that upends tradition notions of sound: To what does ‘real-time’ refer? How does randomness function within a structured musical process? How might algorithms reshape our understanding of musical form? This talk offers a rare opportunity to hear one of contemporary music’s leading figures reflect on the evolving relationship between composer, machine, and sound.
Date: March 25, 2026 (Wednesday)
Time: 2:00 – 4:00 pm
Language: English
Venue: Arts Tech Lab (Room 4.35), 4/F, Run Run Shaw Tower, Centennial Campus
About the Speaker
One of Europe’s most esteemed composers today, Philippe Manoury is a visionary in the field of interactive live electronics. Best known for co-developing the MAX-MSP programming language at IRCAM, his groundbreaking work transforms traditional instruments and orchestras into dynamic sound laboratories. Named an Officier de l’ordre des Arts et des Lettres, one of France’s highest honours recognising significant contributions to the arts and literature, Manoury continues to push the boundaries of modern music, with his expansive catalogue of instrumental, orchestral and operatic works and performed regularly on the world’s most prestigious stages.
This lecture forms part of Manoury’s broader visit to Hong Kong as the Department of Music’s Rayson Huang Scholar. The visit also includes a Rayson Huang Lecture and a chamber music concert, offering audiences a rare opportunity to engage with both his ideas and his distinctive sound world.
This event is jointly hosted by the HKU Arts Tech Lab and the Department of Music.
For enquiries, please contact music@hku.hk.