Farzaneh Nouri

Farzaneh Nouri, a musician, researcher, and sound artist based in the Netherlands, combines her diverse interests in experimental sound, technology, and art to create unique, interdisciplinary works. A recent graduate of the Royal Conservatoire in The Hague, Farzaneh explores the intersections of electroacoustic music, computer science, cybernetics, acoustic ecology, and linguistics. She uses tools like creative coding, field recording, live electronics, and both acoustic and programmable instruments to investigate complex systems, natural algorithms, and human-machine interaction in her compositions for live performances, interactive installations, films, VR, and multi-sensory experiences. Her current research focuses on the application of artificial intelligence methods in live electroacoustic music improvisation.

Before pursuing her studies at the Royal Conservatoire, Farzaneh's background was rooted in classical music and film. She completed a bachelor's degree in film at the University of Arts in Tehran, and from a young age, she was involved in music, first as a classical pianist and later as a cellist, which she now integrates into her electronic work. "I had a vibrant community of friends who made electronic music, and they introduced me to it," she explains. "The more I worked with computers and electronics, the more freedom I felt to express my creativity. It was the best way for me to explore my artistic ideas."

Her decision to study sonology—a field combining music and technology—was influenced by a teacher who introduced her to the Royal Conservatoire’s sonology program. "I had never heard of The Hague or sonology before, but I took a leap and ended up here," Farzaneh recalls. "I’m still very grateful for that decision." At the Conservatoire, she found her unique approach through the exploration of creative coding, particularly through programs like Supercollider. "The first time I encountered Supercollider, I had no idea what I was doing, but I was fascinated by it," she admits with a laugh. "It was a big motivation to dive deeper into coding."

Farzaneh’s dedication paid off, as she eventually created her own agent within Supercollider, an achievement she’s particularly proud of. "During the pandemic, when I was studying from home with all my instruments back in Tehran, I pushed myself to learn how to write and develop my own code," she says. "It was frustrating at times, but my teachers were incredibly supportive, and that encouragement helped me keep going." She credits the guidance from her teachers, including Johan van Kreij and Bjarni Gunnarsson, for helping her develop her research, particularly in connection with natural selection algorithms.

Reflecting on her time at the Royal Conservatoire, Farzaneh recalls the supportive, collaborative atmosphere that made her education memorable. "Everyone was so patient and open," she says. "The students from different departments, like jazz and classical music, were always eager to collaborate. It was a community where people genuinely wanted to share ideas and create together."

As a researcher, musician, and sound artist, Farzaneh blends these disciplines in a way that keeps her practice both theoretical and experiential. "I try to read as much as I can, speculating and experimenting with my tools," she explains. "I focus on what I don’t know and push myself to explore those areas. My research often translates into performances, installations, and fixed media pieces, helping me balance theory and practice." She is currently working on a research residency at Studio Loos, experimenting with the agents she developed during her master’s program, with plans to present these findings in a live concert setting. "For me, it’s important to keep the different aspects of my work connected—whether it's through commissions, collaborations, or personal projects."

Farzaneh’s vision for her professional career is firmly rooted in artistic research, particularly interdisciplinary work that combines computer science and music. "Artistic research is the only thing I want to be doing for the rest of my life," she asserts. "I love the creative process, especially when it involves different fields. I want to continue working in academic environments where knowledge is constantly updated, and where there is a community of people pushing each other forward." She also enjoys performing and exhibiting her work, and ideally, she sees herself balancing both research and performance in the future.

For new graduates of the sonology program, Farzaneh offers this advice: "Take some time off after graduation, but don’t lose touch with your work. Engage with your community, stay connected with your colleagues, and always be curious about the latest developments in the field. It’s easy to get distracted, but the key is to live your passion fully and keep challenging yourself."

In combining music, technology, and research, Farzaneh Nouri continues to explore the boundaries of sound, creating new ways for humans and machines to interact and pushing the limits of artistic expression in the process.