As part of its continuing commitment to intellectual community, the University of Maine at Augusta Research Colloquium (UMARC) series is a venue for UMA faculty, staff, and sponsored students to present completed scholarly works to their peers. The series provides a forum for the presentation of all UMA research (as defined by the Faculty Senate in 2010) including scientific investigations, innovations in education, creative works, and theoretical considerations. Priority is given to those who have not already presented at the Research Colloquium.

The Research Colloquium series takes place during the noon hour using technology to connect UMA’s multiple campuses and Centers. The time reflects our commitment to inclusion, a traditional lunch hour for staff and the time between morning and afternoon classes for faculty and students. Ensuing discussion promotes collaboration through the exchange of ideas and the development of relationships across colleges, programs, departments and disciplines.

2025-2026 Schedule

lindsey wiehl

Lindsey Wiehl

Assistant Professor of Music

Playful Practice: Electrifying My Musical Instrument

Coming in the 2025-2026 academic year!

This presentation explores the evolving role of technology to electrify typically acoustical instruments through the integration of pickups, digital audio workstations (DAWs), effects processing, and live looping. The presentation offers a performance-rich overview of how electronics can enhance the sonic possibilities of musical instruments, often performing examples on the bassoon. Topics include choosing and positioning pickups or microphones, navigating amplification options, and using DAWs such as Garage Band for live effects and looping. Attendees will hear real-time demonstrations that illustrate how reverb, delay, distortion, and harmonizers can transform the instrument’s voice. Special attention is given to looping as a solo performance and compositional tool, highlighting layering techniques and methods for building dynamic, evolving textures.

The presentation also addresses practical performance practice techniques: exercises for loop timing and phrasing, intonation control with effects, and managing transitions between acoustic and processed passages. Through discussion and performance, this session aims to demystify the technology and empower musicians to confidently explore electronics into their creative work. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or a curious music-admirer, this presentation offers a comprehensive and inspiring look at the integration of music and electronics.