Chiyoko Szlavnics (b. 1967, Toronto) has composed works ranging from solo instruments to chamber orchestra, since 1993.
She studied composition with James Tenney from 1994-7, was in residence at the Akademie Schloss Solitude from 1997-8,
and attended Walter Zimmermann's seminars at the HdK (now the UdK) in Berlin.

Her recent body of compositions are based on drawings which are translated into musical notation using the Just Intonation
ratio system as a harmonic and microtonal basis. The resulting acoustical phenomena are surprising: through her particular
choice of pitch material and extended glissandi, a transparent (glassy) surface of pure intervals is often set into motion
by rippling beating, and surprising harmonic movements and harmonic perception occur. Her compositions feature clusters,
beating, unexpected harmonies, as well other auditory experiences, such as difference tones, and what Szlavnics likes to call
"audible harmonic nodes". All of these phenomena are structured by the forms and dynamics inherent in the original drawings.

She has also produced numerous multi-channel sound installations; created works for contemporary dance and theatre,
and video & film. In 1995 & 1997, Szlavnics co-curated Art in Open Spaces, a Toronto performance series highlighting
outdoor public art sites and spaces in the city's downtown core, through the commissioning and production of new dance
and music pieces.

Her compositions have been performed and presented by a variety of ensembles, venues, and on radio in Europe and
North America.

Contact: info (at) chiyokoszlavnics (dot) org or chi (at) plainsound (dot) org