Hi, I am Paul Stillwell. Based in Toronto, I am a musician, photographer, and the host/curator/founder of Frequency Freaks – Toronto’s only monthly workshop on synthesizers, synthesis, and live performance of electronic music. I am enamoured with all aspects of electronic music. Especially the darker, more moody side.
Musically, I perform individually, as a duo, and as part of a larger ensemble. My music is always largely based on improvisation. I like to leave room for direction that is driven by emotion and experimentation. I gravitate toward more esoteric instruments like modular synthesizers and those from Ciat-Lonbarde and Soma. I still love a good keyboard synth though!
Not Your Average Worker Bees is a duo formed in 2016 with David Sutherland. The music can be described as Dark Ambient with elements of Berlin School mixed in. I would hate to limit it to that though as we inject a fair share of experimentation but can also get close to the point of something you can dance to sometimes!
I am a longtime member of the Canadian Electronic Ensemble. Some of the most rewarding and exciting music I have participated in has been created with this band! You can see some videos and our web site at the link below.
Bandcamp is the place to find the music and there is some video on YouTube:
- Solo music: https://paulstillwell.bandcamp.com
- Video available on YouTube.
- Not Your Average Worker Bees (Duo): https://nyawb.bandcamp.com
- Video available on YouTube.
- The Canadian Electronic Ensemble: https://canadianelectronicensemble.com
- Video available on YouTube.
Frequency Freaks workshops encourage collaboration as well as live performances between synthesists and performers of all levels from beginner to professional as well, as instrument designers and builders. You never know who you’re going to meet at a workshop!
Photography has been a big part of my life since I was a kid. I practically grew up with a camera in my hand. I made the switch to digital early on but over the past few years have rediscovered the joy of analogue photography. I now have a dark room and I am able to print black and white photos up to 11″x14″. You can see my portfolio of work here or under the Photos menu… these link directly to albums I have on Flickr. If you like something you see, prints are available and I would be flattered for you to consider placing some of my art on your wall!
Of course, if you’d prefer to reach out to me directly, you can via the Contact form under the FAQ menu