Philip Glass is best known for his work as a minimalist classical composer, but recently he's been completing work in fields as diverse as opera, piano recitals, film and synth ensembles. Mark Jenkins talked to the minimalist maestro during a fleeting visit to London for his latest opera, 'The Making Of The Representative From Planet 8'.

Boots No 7 or Fairlight Series 3? Tony Reed trades fashion tips with the Duran and Arcadia ivory-tinkler

A convenient arrangement

In contrast with the main feature we take a look at one of today’s modern commercial, electro-music bands.

Music Synthesiser

The appliance of SYience

Looking for 'new' sounds? Martin Russ explores Oberheim's new Matrix 1000 analogue synth expander and discovers that digital isn't always best.

Oberheim Matrix-12

Oberheim's powerful analogue synth

The business that's been done in the shops

Korg's PSS-50, your portable backing band

Software for the Atari ST

The first release from a British company called System Exclusive is a 128-track sequencer for the Atari ST. Simon 'ST Trask (and his assistant, 'Mouse') find it both powerful and flexible.

Drums

Dod/IVL Pitchrider 7000 Mk.2

IVL's Pitchrider assessed

What every good keyboard player - and keyboard roadie — should know about where not to hit a synth.

Frankfurt Fair Preview

Two sparkling summer concerts, by Ultravox and Michael Nyman.

In the dog-eat-dog world of professional recording studios, the Strongroom has proved that you don't necessarily need an SSL mixing desk to stay in business! Paul Calderon pays a visit to this thriving centre of creativity.

Once you've got your sequencer up and running you're gonna need some extra sound sources. Paul Wiffen guides us through the MIDI Expander jungle

SynthAxe

Approx. £7,000 worth

TG100 and Boss DS330 Dr Synth

General MIDI sound modules from Boss and Yamaha, combining ease of use and low cost with impressive sounds.

Caught during their London rehearsals, keyboard-playing half Mike Talbot stands up for his organ.