Peter Manning Robinson welcomes us into his distinctive realm of organic sounds with his latest single, “Way Station.” This captivating track unfolds with a mesmerizing blend of percussive string layers, intricately interwoven with a delicate piano melody. As the composition progresses, it gradually builds in intensity, revealing hints of jazz flavors that seamlessly meld into the sonic tapestry. The result is an atmospheric and melodic vibe that leaves a lasting impression.
Peter Manning Robinson wears many creative hats—he’s a pianist, an Emmy and multiple BMI award-winning composer, an inventor of The Refractor Piano™, and even a vegan chef. His musical journey leads him to a genre he aptly calls “Refracted Music.” What sets this style apart is that, during his live performances, Peter refracts the sound of an acoustic piano without relying on prerecorded tracks, triggered samples, external sounds, or MIDI instruments. The result is a truly unique musical experience that pushes the boundaries of what traditional piano music can be.
Stylistically, Peter’s solo piano improvisations evoke modern echoes of Chopin’s compositions, while his work with the Refractor Piano™ ventures into uncharted sonic territories, blending a myriad of never-before-heard sounds. The Refractor Piano™ itself is an acoustic piano equipped with transducers and microphones. Its live sound is refracted through a proprietary system of hardware and software co-developed by Peter and filmmaker-guitarist Klaus Hoch. This remarkable instrument represents the culmination of Peter’s lifelong experimentation with alternative musical forms.
Peter’s musical journey has taken him to various venues, including the Vortex Immersion Dome, MOCA, and Bergamot Station in LA, where his concerts incorporate unique visual elements to enhance the overall experience. His musical prowess began at a young age when he started playing the piano at three years old. By the time he turned 12, he was already performing with bands. He further honed his skills with formal music training at USC and Berklee College of Music.
In addition to his innovative work with the Refractor Piano™, Peter Manning Robinson boasts an impressive track record in the world of film and television scoring. His accolades include an Emmy Award for his work on KABC’s “Above and Below” and five BMI Music Awards for “Without a Trace.” Moreover, his orchestral compositions have been recorded by members of The London Philharmonic and Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra.