Peter O’Doherty (b. 1973) is a composer, performer and curator of new music whose work engages with human performers, computational processes and sound objects. His work investigates the shifting boundaries between human and technological expression, exploring memory, time and the intersections of space and gesture. He works across four principal areas: composing scores for human performers; creating performances that integrate objects and electronics; multichannel electroacoustic composition; and the co-production with computational processes of text-based works for both written and performed contexts.
His music and sound works have been performed in Ireland, UK, Finland, The Netherlands and the former Yugoslavia. He received a BMus (Hons.) from the University of Edinburgh and an MMus from Ulster University and is currently a PhD researcher in music at Ulster University. His research is focused on investigating the role of immersive audio techniques and technologies in shaping spatial and immersive music practices.
Recent works and performances include: “Inflorescence” (ensemble), performed by Hard Rain Soloist Ensemble in Derry and Belfast in January 2025; “Ausschnitt” (violin and electronics), performed by Darragh Morgan in Derry and Belfast in May 2024; “Gloss” (bass clarinet and electronics), performed by Sarah Watts in Manchester and Sheffield in February 2024; and “Line” (16-channel acousmatic) performed by the composer in Greenwich, London in February 2024.
In 2023 he performed Michel Chion’s groundbreaking 1973 electroacoustic work “Requiem” at Belfast International Arts Festival, Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival and RAMP Festival of Experimental Music (Rathmullan).
In 2023 he founded Electric Circus, an electroacoustic ensemble that focuses on the intersection of acoustic instruments and spatialised electronic sound. The ensemble commissions new pieces, runs residencies and collaborative projects, and presents concert series as well as tours throughout Ireland and beyond.
In 2022 he and sound poet James King released “OXS”, a CD of sound poetry, on Nyahh Records.
