Morton Subotnick

Morton Subotnick was born in 1933 in Los Angeles and studied classical music at the University of Denver and Juilliard. His curiosity pushed him beyond tradition. In the 1960s, he helped shape the future of electronic music by co-founding the San Francisco Tape Music Center with Ramon Sender and Pauline Oliveros, while teaching at Mills College. He also played key roles directing music at the Actors Workshop and New York’s Vivian Beaumont Theater. He collaborated with Donald Buchla to help develop the Buchla modular synthesizer, known as the Electric Music Box, a landmark instrument in the history of electronic music. Later, at CalArts, he developed programs that integrated composition and emerging technology, serving as Associate Dean and leading the composition program, where he introduced multimedia and interactive technology into music education.

As a composer, Subotnick revolutionized electronic music by integrating live performance with technology. His 1967 album Silver Apples of the Moon was the first extended electronic composition created specifically for the LP format, designed to be experienced at home. NASA even considered using it during the moon landing broadcast. Subotnick introduced the concept of the “ghost score,” an electronic framework that allows live performers to interact with pre-recorded electronic controls, combining human expression and machine precision. Pieces like Silver Apples of the Moon and The Wild Bull have been choreographed by dance companies internationally, underscoring his influence beyond the music world. He also created interactive concert experiences and explored narrative-driven form, including operas like Jacob’s Room and The Double Life of Amphibians, which integrated live instruments, voice, and computer technology.

Subotnick’s contributions have been recognized with numerous awards, including Guggenheim and Rockefeller fellowships, the American Academy of Arts and Letters Composer Award, and lifetime achievement honors from SEAMUS and ASCAP. Silver Apples of the Moon was inducted into the Library of Congress’ National Recording Registry, an honor reserved for recordings of lasting cultural significance. He was also an early adopter of multimedia formats, releasing All My Hummingbirds Have Alibis as one of the first interactive concert CD-ROMs. Beyond composing, he has dedicated himself to music education and outreach, developing interactive music tools for children. Subotnick remains active as a composer, performer, and educator, continuing to expand how we think about music, technology, and creative expression.