Jean-Claude Risset

Born 1938. Works three years with Max Mathews at Bell Laboratories to develop the musical resources of computer sound synthesis: imitation of real timbres (brass synthesis, 1965), pitch paradoxes, synthesis of new timbres, sonic development processes (1967-1969). Writes many musical works, most of which resort to computer synthesis in conjonction with instruments or human voice. Publishes a catalog of computer synthesized sounds (1969). Sets up computer sound systems at Orsay (1970-1971), University of Marseille-Luminy (1974),  and IRCAM, where Pierre Boulez asks him to head the Computer Department (1975-1979). As a composer in residence at the Media Laboratory, MIT (1987-1989), implements the first real-time interaction between performer and computer with acoustic piano sounds. Works in LMA, Marseille, at CNRS "Directeur de recherche emeritus". He has received the highest French distinctions both in music -  Grand Prix National de la Musique 1990 – and science - Gold medal 1999, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique. Also recipient of Golden NICA, Ars Electronica, 1987; Grand Prix Musica Nova (Prague, 1995); 1st Prize EAR 97 for mixed and live electroacoustic music (Hungarian radio) ; Prix Magistère de Bourges (1998).  Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur, Commandeur des Arts et Lettres.

jcrisset@lma.cnrs-mrs.fr
http://brahms.ircam.fr/index.php?id=2734