About

Breaching into interdisciplinary practices and a wide variety of collaborations, Chicago Based composer and sound designer Austin Gray Williams uses both traditional and exploratory compositional techniques and trends to create art at his highest level. Having a deep understanding of music technology and common practice techniques has enabled Austin to create worlds of sound that bridge natural acoustic settings and unconventional electroacoustic phenomena. By incorporating electronics and acoustic techniques there is a generally maximal approach to most works. Throwing paint against the wall, seeing what sticks, throwing more paint, seeing what sticks again. Explorations and a fervent attitude towards learning are key aspects to Williams’ process and desire towards elevated artistic output.

With a strong performance background guiding compositional techniques it’s not uncommon to see Austin directly improvising and collaborating with performers in the Chicago New Music scene. In doing so, he creates a deeper connection with performers and an even deeper connection with self and understanding of how art deeply impacts the individual and community. Not only does this strengthen connection between individuals but also allows a space for questions to be asked and furthering the conversation between performers and the performer/composer relationship.

Life is messy, harsh, and beautiful; Austin Gray Williams reflects on finding the space where chaos and beauty intersect.