The Guthman competition is looking for futuristic instruments – and you can apply

It’s what The Guardian called the “Pulitzer of the new instrument world.” There are paid commissions and star judges. And this year is different, because (of course) the whole event goes online. Welcome to the 2021 Guthman Musical Instrument Competition.

Watch Elsa Garmire’s pioneering laser show from 1972 – futuristic and expressive even now

Forget that cheesy Pink Floyd stuff from the planetarium. Scientist Elsa Garmire used optic chops to make lasers into a real instrument – and her work holds up today.

Peter Kirn - February 6, 2020

Azure Kinect promises new motion, sensing for art

Gamers’ interest may come and go, but artists are always exploring the potential of computer vision for expression. Microsoft this month has resurrected the Kinect, albeit in pricey, limited form. Let’s fit it to the family tree.

Peter Kirn - March 1, 2019

Detroit techno, the 90s comic book – and epic new DJ T-1000 techno

Peter Kirn - October 29, 2018

A marvelous sound machine inspired by a Soviet deep drilling project

Peter Kirn - September 25, 2018

This light sculpture plays like an instrument, escaped from Tron

Peter Kirn - September 24, 2018

The new Jaguar cars sound like spaceships, thanks to Richard Devine

Peter Kirn - September 20, 2018

Hacking and 3D printing the future of violins, in a growing community

Peter Kirn - August 29, 2018

What culture, ritual will be like in the age of AI, as imagined by a Hacklab

Peter Kirn - July 26, 2018

CDM Newswire

brings together the latest breaking news on music, technology, gear, and live visuals. Got a project, found a news tip, or want to share your product? Submit to us directly.

Submit to CDM NEWSWIRE