Dr. Scott Smallwood

Professor

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Biography

Scott Smallwood is a sound artist, composer, and sound performer with a deep interest in music composition, improvisation, electroacoustic music, and sound art. He creates works inspired by discovered textures and forms, focusing on the practice of listening, field recording, and sonic improvisation. Smallwood designs experimental electronic instruments and software, along with sound installations and site-specific performance scenarios. His work involves exploring the subtleties of sonic texture and the gradual transformations of timbre, particularly emphasizing sounds derived from specific recordings of objects and spaces. He has presented his works worldwide, including notable venues like SARC in Belfast, Issue Project Room in NYC, and the Burning Man Festival in Black Rock City. Smallwood's recorded works have been released by various labels such as Autumn Records and Deep Listening. With over 25 years of experience in music composition and technology, he has held academic positions at prestigious institutions, including a postdoctoral research associate role with the Princeton Laptop Orchestra. He is currently the Director of the Sound Studies Institute at the University of Alberta, where he serves as a Professor in music composition and technology.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

2010-01-01 — Present

University of Alberta • Edmonton, AB

Serving as Professor of Music Composition and Technology.

Director

2010-01-01 — Present

Sound Studies Institute, University of Alberta • Edmonton, AB

Leading the Sound Studies Institute.

Postdoctoral Research Associate

2003-01-01 — 2004-01-01

Princeton Laptop Orchestra • Princeton, NJ

Worked with the legendary Princeton Laptop Orchestra.

Technical Director

1997-01-01 — 2003-01-01

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute • Troy, NY

Developed ongoing interest in collaboration with artists in electronic arts.

Courses

ART 354 - Expanded Media: Special Projects ART 454 - Expanded Media: Special Projects II

Requirements for University of Alberta

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:21
Reading
Required:21
Writing
Required:21
Speaking
Required:21
Total
Required:93
Prerequisites
Undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering or Engineering Management
Application Checklist
  • Three letters of reference
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Personal Statement
  • Official Transcripts (upon admission)
Specialization Notes

Department: Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Management