Cyborg

The term “cyborg”, first coined in 1960 by NASA scientists Manfred Clynes and Nathan S. Kline, combines “cybernetic” and “organism” to describe an entity whose natural abilities are

augmented through technology. In the 21st century, this notion extends far beyond science fiction. Even the simplest technological adaptations—a pair of glasses, a set of dentures, or some breast implants—blend seamlessly into our lives, transforming an ordinary person into a part-cybernetic being. Indeed, in a world saturated with devices, how distinct is the organic from the synthetic? CYBORG weaves together sounds that pulse with human warmth alongside sounds that echo the cold precision of machinery, blurring the boundaries between these two worlds. Rather than trying to draw any conclusions, the piece aims to ask the question: are we in control of our technological selves, or is there a mutual dependence evolving—a merging of machinery and humanity that’s becoming impossible to untangle?

The featured recording is the premiere performance of the work, captured at March 26th, 2025 at Alice Tully Hall.

Featured Performers:

Anju Aoto, clarinet

Pierce Wang, violin

Baron Fenwick, piano