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Joe Berardi is a prominent figure on the Los Angeles experimental and improvised music scene, both as a performer and composer. Although mainly a percussionist, he has always had an interest in electronically generated music and sound. This has led him to an exploration of the science of electronics, and for the last several years he has been involved in circuit bending (the alteration of existing circuits to create new and unexpected results), circuit modification and effects pedal building. Many of the pieces he creates began life as a children’s toy or musical instrument, which are transformed into a noise-making device or sound sculpture through circuit board alterations and electronic additions. User interaction is a primary focus, but sometimes the pieces become self-playing music boxes of strange beauty or odd dissonance. The all-important visual elements are also altered with additional elements, custom paint work and sometimes re-housing.