The AirSticks combine the physicality of drumming with the unlimited possibilities of computer music, taking the practice of real-time electronic music to a new realm.

The AirSticks are the brainchild of drummer/ electronic producer Alon Ilsar and computer programmer/ composer Mark Havryliv. Both hold PhDs in instrument design at the University of Technology, Sydney and the University of Wollongong respectively. The ingenious software development of Mark has enabled Alon to transform off-the-shelf gaming controllers into a unique musical instrument, performing with the instrument in scores of professional projects from Sydney to Berlin, London and New York over the last 6 years. These have included performances with actor/singer Alan Cumming at New York’s MET Museum, Australian hip hop band Thundamentals at Australia’s Splendour in the Grass and a solo audio-visual extravaganza at Sydney’s City Recital Hall, Trigger Happy ‘Visualised.’ The AirSticks have also been featured at TEDxSydney 2015, on Triple J’s Like a Version with Tuka and Thelma Plum, and in projects with members of Hiatus Kaiyote, Hermitude and the Cat Empire.

To book a performance, schedule a talk, start a new collaboration and/or discuss commercialisation of the AirSticks email alonilsar@gmail.com

For more on the new hardware/software AirSticks page visit https://airsticks.xyz/

VIDEO: AirStorm – The AirSticks Controlling Sound and Visuals

VIDEO: AirStorm – The AirSticks On Triple J’s Like a Version

For more videos of the AirSticks click on the following projects:

Trigger Happy ‘Visualised’ – Audio-Visual Percussion Piece

The Hour – Audio-Visual Percussion Piece

The Sticks (AUS) – Live Electronic Music Trio