SOUND ARTIST

Canadian composer and sound artist Justin Tatone’s practice is rooted in Sonic Biomimicry, using sound synthesis techniques to create sonic representations of nature using non-natural materials. Concepts of indeterminacy, generative systems, and improvisation are central to this process. Through these methods, he explores seemingly organic textures with synthetic materials.

The primary tool for this style of composition is his Eurorack modular synthesizer system, which he designed in 2022. This advanced system allows him to engage with sound on a deeply structural level, incorporating electroacoustic techniques such as real-time manipulation, field recordings, and digital processing. His work is marked by a commitment to both technical innovation in biomimetic sound and artistic intention of creating environments that react and are alive but have no real agency. This interest in artificial nature—shaped in part by an art world captivated by AI enthusiasm, which he views as an illusory refuge from the violence of the real world—threads through his work. Themes critiquing both the use of violence as a tool for social change and the complacency toward violence emerge, reflecting his commitment to nonviolent disruption as a core mechanism for meaningful transformation and the foundation of his philosophy. 

Tatone has composed for live ensembles like the Concordia Laptop Orchestra and the experimental ensemble BEWELL, his interest in building natural environments unfold in dynamic, real-time contexts as well as the studio. Additionally, his contributions to film sound design have been recognized in award-winning projects, including Coller Pour Crier, directed by Éléonore Delvaux-Beaudoin. This film received accolades at prestigious events such as the Fantasia Festival, Festival Filministes, and the Intercollégial de cinéma in Rimouski, Canada. Through these endeavors, Tatone was honored with the Hugh and Trudi Le Caine Award in Electroacoustics (2024) and the Alain Thibault Award in Electroacoustics (2024).

In addition to his film work, Tatone has contributed sound design for commercial advertisements and worked on albums for local Montreal artists. He is also the founder and director of BASTION, a hip hop collective established in 2022, where he continues to play an active role in the creative direction and production.

Tatone’s academic background in electroacoustic studies at Concordia University, coupled with mentorship from figures like double platinum-selling producer and songwriter Joe Segreti and experimental composer Adam Basanta, has further shaped his dual expertise in both commercial and experimental music. This combination of influences allows him to navigate and contribute to both the commercial music industry and the avant-garde.