Machine rhythm encompasses the art of arranging sounds into musically
meaningful patterns through the use of technological devices. How have
technologies shaped the way we produce rhythm? In what ways have
methods of sound inscription and representation influenced what we think
of as musical rhythm, to begin with?
In his dissertation, Bjørnar Ersland Sandvik introduces the concept of "time
tinkering" – practices of deliberate experimentation with time and rhythm –
as an entry point to exploring the relationship between technologies and
musical rhythm.
At the heart of his research lies a simple yet profound premise: machine
rhythm depends on a process of spatialization. While time itself flows
irreversibly, Sandvik considers how media technologies have the
remarkable ability to transform time into space and space into time. This
unique foundation forms the basis for the production and manipulation of
machine rhythm.
The dissertation is divided into two parts: one that addresses the historical role of grids and audio waveform representations in musical instruments and systems of notation, and another that uses ethnographic and music analytical methods to explore how contemporary electronic musicians and producers apply techniques of “time tinkering” in their creative work. Overall, Sandvik's work offers valuable insights into the rationalization of musical time and its connection to the human imagination.
Bjørnar Ersland Sandvik successfully defended his dissertation on 13 June 2023.
Trial lecture
Designated topic: "How might “the grid” function as a metaphor for a broader social or cultural logic that shapes not only music production, but other areas of technological “tinkering” across media as well as everyday life in the 21st century, specifically?"
Evaluation Committee
- Doctor Paul Harkins, Edinburgh Napier University (first opponent)
- Assistant Professor Mike D’Errico, Albright College (second opponent)
- Associate Professor Nanette Nielsen, University of Oslo (committee administrator)
Chair of the defence
- Head of Department of Musicology Zafer Özgen, University of Oslo
Supervisors
- Professor Ragnhild Brøvig, University of Oslo
- Professor Kyle Devine, University of Oslo