Invitation to the Defense of Juan Sebastián Vassallo

The PhD Programme in Artistic Research at the Faculty of Fine Art, Music and Design kindly invites you to the defense of Juan Sebastián Vassallo's project Outward Threads (2020–2025) at the Grieg Academy.

The Examination Panel is made up of:
Professor Heather Frasch (chair), Associate Professor Andrea Szigetvari and Professor Dr. Georg Hajdu.

Abstract
The project Outward Threads (2020–2025) at the Grieg Academy was an artistic investigation into music composition that integrated machine learning and artificial intelligence to explore new compositional methodologies and develop creative software tools. Its artistic outcomes included several compositions that engaged with diverse computational frameworks alongside diverse multimedia practices. The research also explored creative cognition through insights from cognitive science and artificial intelligence, seeking to bridge neurocognitive approaches with practice-based artistic research. In parallel with these artistic outputs, the project addressed ethical questions concerning the role of the composer in society and the implications of generative AI for creativity, situating its contributions within broader contemporary debates on music, technology, and the interplay between human and artificial agency in art.

Short bio

Juan Sebastián Vassallo is an Argentinian experimental musician and researcher based in Bergen, Norway. He holds a master’s degree in music and psychology and is currently finishing his Ph.D. in Artistic Research at the University of Bergen. His work investigates how technology can extend and transform musical practices, not as a replacement for human creativity but as a partner to investigate new artistic possibilities. His most recent projects focus on human–computer interaction in composition and live electronics improvisation, algorithmic poetics, and procedural visual media.

His music has been performed internationally by ensembles such as Quasar Saxophone Quartet, Tabula Rasa, Edvard Grieg Kor, JÓR Saxophone Quartet, Hinge Quartet, and Zone Experimental Basel. His compositions have received awards, including first prize at the IEEE Big Data Conference’s AI-based composition contest (2024), the Prix Pas de Calais, and the Chengdu River Sun Prize. His projects have also been supported by UNESCO and the Organization of Ibero-American States (IBERMÚSICAS).

The defense will be in English and will take place at the Grieg Academy, Lars Hilles gate 3, room: Gunnar Sævig’s Sal

We are looking forward to welcoming you.

Date: Thursday 11.09.2025
Time: 10:00 (CET)

The defense will be streamed

https://uib.zoom.us/j/62100151477?pwd=aeUnTnYaal4QzWmd3aKGqrxCRtoYuO.1

Photo credit: Ingrid Hannevold