Celebrate Electronic Music at the Musical Instrument Museum

This weekend, the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix is set to trade its centuries-old instruments for a vibrant showcase of synthesizers, sequencers, and all the electronic magic that defines modern music. The Celebrate Electronic Music event, happening on August 8 and 9, brings together two days bursting with live music, hands-on demonstrations, and engaging exhibitions dedicated to the art of electronic sound creation.

A Global Celebration of Electronic Sound

At the heart of this event is a desire to explore how electronic music has shaped and continues to influence the soundscape across cultures. Mike Silvers, MIM’s curator of education, emphasizes that Celebrate Electronic Music is designed to tell a “global story” about this genre. More than just a weekend filled with “bloops, bleeps, and beats,” the festival aims to weave together the science, composition, and dance aspects of electronic music, providing an experience that is both fun and educational.

Silvers notes how vibrant and diverse electronic music has become, blending traditional sounds with modern technology. “Everywhere you go, people are still playing traditional instruments, but they’re also combining them with electronics and computer music,” he explains. This event is a testament to the versatility and reach of electronic music, making it a fitting addition to MIM’s mission.

Engaging Activities for All Ages

The schedule for Celebrate Electronic Music is infused with a blend of thought-provoking discussions and energetic festivities. On Saturday, notable Fernanda Aoki Navarro, an electroacoustic composer and Arizona State University professor, will delve into the history of electronic music over the last century. At the same time, MIM curator Rich Walter will explore the museum’s vintage synthesizer collection, offering insight into the machines that have shaped the genre.

In addition, the AZ Beat Lab will lead an interactive beat-making workshop where attendees can experiment with digital samplers to create their own soundscapes. This hands-on approach ensures that visitors not only learn about electronic music but also engage with it creatively.

As evening falls, the day will culminate with EDM dance parties featuring local DJs like Midnite Club and Casey Zanni, ensuring that the celebration is as festive as it is informative.

A Diverse Lineup of Performers

Celebrate Electronic Music doesn’t just spotlight DJs; it features a variety of local musicians who represent the many facets of electronic sound. Performers include Garrison Jones, an electronic jazz composer, and the indie pop duo Dutch Holly, who incorporates electronic elements alongside traditional songwriting.

For Tres Ikner and Jen Juniper of Dutch Holly, electronic music transcends genre labels. Ikner points out that “there’s a whole bunch of different ways you can be an electronic act without ever touching a turntable.” Their music fuses glowing synths, pre-programmed beats, and looping effects to create a sound that is both cinematic and reflective of their artistic vision.

Ikner articulates how the use of varied sounds, from orchestral instruments to guitars, creates a canvas for their songwriting: “Being able to employ orchestral sounds or tablas…gave us the freedom to make something that was closer to the vision of what our songs wanted to be.” Their upcoming performance at MIM reflects this ethos, showcasing how electronic music can be a rich tapestry rather than a singular genre.

Event Details

Mark your calendars for an immersive experience at the Musical Instrument Museum, where the boundaries of sound and artistry are pushed to their limits. Celebrate Electronic Music will take place on August 8 and 9, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Attendees can enjoy this vibrant exploration for a standard admission fee of $10 to $20, or for free if they are MIM members.

The event is sure to inspire a new appreciation for electronic music and its global impact, inviting both seasoned fans and newcomers to engage in a unique celebration of sound. Whether through dance, discussion, or experimentation, there will be an abundance of ways to experience the magic of electronic music at MIM this weekend. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to explore how technology shapes music creation in an interactive, celebratory environment.