The department of music at Hope College will present a return engagement by guest composer and pianist Keith Kirchoff on Wednesday, April 21, at 7:30 p.m. in Wichers Auditorium of Nykerk Hall of Music.

The public is invited. Admission is free.

Kirchoff's "The Electro-Acoustic Piano" performance includes three works specially commissioned for this event and explores several completely different aspects of electro-acoustic performance. The program features a duet for piano and Nintendo Wii by Christopher Jette, a machine-like work for piano and sampler by Annie Gosfield, the virtuosic "Rip" by Allen Strange, new works by Dan VanHassel and Christopher Trebue Moore, and Kirchoff's own theatrical "The Adventures of Norby."  The recital is designed for all listeners and will be presented in a casual lecture/recital format.

The program includes Roberto Morales-Manzanares,  "Servicio a Domicilio" for piano, synthesizer, and tape; Christopher Jette, "in vitro oink"  for piano, Wii, and electronics; Annie Gosfield, "Lightning Slingers and Dead Ringers" for piano and sampler; Christopher Trebue Moore, "praya dubia" for prepared piano, pre-recorded/electronically modified piano, and electronics; Dan VanHassel, "Lush Intrinsic" for piano and live electronics; Allen Strange, "Velocity Study No. 3: Rip" for piano and tape; and Keith Kirchoff, "The Adventures of Norby" for piano and electronics.

Kirchoff, who performed at Hope in February 2008, has played in many of the largest cities in the United States, as well as major cities throughout Italy, Canada, Great Britain and The Netherlands. As a strong supporter of modern music, Kirchoff has premiered more than 100 new works and commissioned over a dozen compositions. He has appeared with orchestras throughout the U. S. performing a wide range of concerti, including the Boston premier of Charles Ives's "Emerson Concerto" and the world premier of Matthew McConnell's "Concerto for Toy Piano." With his highly unique lecture style integrated into his programs, Kirchoff strives to enhance the status of classical music in American culture, stressing the importance of modern music to keep the art alive and current.

Nykerk Hall of Music is located at the former 177 E. 12th St. between College and Columbia avenues.