“Microtonality deals with the notes that fall between the cracks. Instead of semitones being the smallest interval between two notes, you get microtones – between the semitones. I am interested in making music from these other possibilities. Instead of assuming that music is just made from the notes you get on the piano, for me it was like opening up a whole palette of new colours. Why take it for granted, why don’t we find our own new building blocks that have not been explored yet to make a new type of music? I mean, that is why I became attracted to this area as a composer.”

In this fascinating Session, Dr Terumi Narushima talks to us about the personal challenges of embarking on a career in music, how a chance encounter at a conference impacted her decision to undertake a PhD, and some really good advice for school leavers and undergraduates about the importance of doing what you are passionate about.