*EXTENDED DEADLINE: apply by Tuesday, 7 May 2024!*

The Magnetic Resonator Piano (MRP) is an innovative hybrid instrument designed by Professor Andrew McPherson (Imperial College London). Electromagnets are installed above the strings of a regular concert grand piano without physical contact with the action, allowing for control of minute details of resonance, pitch bends, crescendi from silence and sustained “bowed” sounds that the performer can shape directly from the keyboard. This is an exciting addition to the unique immersive sound setup in the Sonic Lab. This event is part of a celebration of SARC’s 20th Anniversary and re-launch in 2024.

During this four-day workshop at SARC, participants will be introduced to the MRP and guided to explore ergonomic playing techniques by Dr Xenia Pestova Bennett, a leading exponent of the instrument.

Applications are open to composers, performers and instrument designers. You will learn about the MRP mechanism, explore some of the existing repertoire and workshop new material. In addition to a number of “observer” participants, up to 15 applicants will be selected as “active participants”, which will enable individual time bookings with the MRP and feedback sessions on sketches and ideas for new pieces. If selected to be an active participant, you will be invited to submit a short piece (up to 5 minutes) for consideration for public performance by Xenia in Queen’s University lunchtime concert series on the 24th of October 2024.