The Art of Electronic Exploration – A Conversation with Robert Rich

Robert Rich is a California-based electronic musician, composer, recording engineer, mastering engineer, sound designer and instrument innovator.

Over a four-decade career spanning more than 60 albums, Robert has helped define ambient, electronic, tribal, drone and minimalist music. His most recent release is Reunion of Breath and Waves, his first collaboration with longtime friend and fellow ambient composer Michael Stearns.

On a personal note, Robert has been a close friend for nearly 30 years, dating back to 1997 when my tribal-ambient duo, Ma Ja Le, opened for him at the legendary Shank Hall in Milwaukee.

Perfect for this issue’s focus on synthesizers and keyboards, Robert’s career is deeply intertwined with the history and evolution of modern electronic instruments. From alternate tuning systems and early sampling to sound design, mixing and mastering, his experiences provide a unique perspective on the technology and artistry behind electronic music.