About

Derek Schwartz (he/him) is an audio engineer, writer, and technologist practicing the art of weaving networks. His creative and cultural practice pushes back against extractive technology, such as streaming algorithms, to build stronger, more self-sufficient, local music scenes.

Derek’s values are rooted in DIY music culture, and prior to coming to Philadelphia, he spent time in St. Louis as a music writer and production assistant at KDHX Radio. In his audio practice, he produces, mixes, and records audio for film and music, with a focus on translating the energy of live performance into a recording. His practice is hyper-local, collaborative, and experimental, tapping into the power and ingenuity of the Philadelphia music scene.

Outside of professional audio, Derek creates experimental multimedia projects that play with waveforms, electronics, and decentralized media.  His work plays with anachronisms, combining old technology, such as FM Radio, with new and experimental mediums to build innovative and immersive projects that facilitate deep listening, and communal experiences.