From MIT News:
Professor Emeritus Barry Lloyd Vercoe, a pioneering force in computer music, a founding faculty member of the MIT Media Lab, and a leader in the development of MIT’s Music and Theater Arts Section, passed away on June 15. He was 87.
Vercoe’s life was a rich symphony of artistry, science, and innovation that led to profound enhancements of musical experience for expert musicians as well as for the general public — and especially young people.
Born in Wellington, New Zealand, on July 24, 1937, Vercoe earned bachelor’s degrees in music (in 1959) and mathematics (in 1962) from the University of Auckland, followed by a doctor of musical arts in music composition from the University of Michigan in 1968…
In 1973, Vercoe founded MIT’s Experimental Music Studio (EMS) — the Institute’s first dedicated computer music facility, and one of the first in the world. Operated under the auspices of the music program, EMS became a crucible for innovation in algorithmic composition, digital synthesis, and computer-assisted performance. His leadership not only positioned MIT as a hub for music technology, but also influenced how the Institute approached the intersection of the arts with engineering. This legacy is honored today by a commemorative plaque in the Kendall Square MBTA station.
More here.
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