About

Yifeng (Yvonne) Yuan

Audio researcher, engineer and sound artist.

Black-and-white portrait of Yifeng Yvonne Yuan.

I develop audio tools and interactive sound systems, working across audio plugin development, real-time DSP, audio model training, and live performance. My tools include C++/JUCE, Python, PyTorch, and Max/MSP.

I am a Ph.D. candidate in Computer Music at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and hold an M.S. in Media Arts and Technology from UCSB. My technical work is informed by a practice in composition, sound design, and critical listening.

Research & engineering

Audio software & DSP

I develop audio analysis plugins in C++/JUCE, including FFT-based spectral analysis, peak detection, feature-to-MIDI mapping, and smoothing. My SPEKANA plugin turns audio features into MIDI notes and control messages for creative music workflows.

Audio models & neural synthesis

My work with RAVE includes preparing approximately 150 minutes of experimental vocal recordings, training models, comparing checkpoints through listening, and integrating neural synthesis into Max/MSP. I also build Python pipelines that connect pretrained vocal-analysis models to live effects over OSC.

Interactive systems & audio engineering

I connect sensors and environmental data to generative sound using Arduino, C++, and Max/MSP. My live audio experience includes multichannel speaker mapping, performer-monitor routing, microphone placement, audio interfaces, mixers, and soundchecks.

Selected projects

SPEKANA

Real-time audio analysis and audio-to-MIDI plugin. C++ / JUCE / VST3.

View on GitHub

Field Poetry

An environment-responsive sound box connecting sensor data to generative music. Arduino / C++ / Max/MSP.

Explore the work

Education

Ph.D. Music (Computer Music)
University of California, Santa BarbaraExpected Fall 2026
M.S. Media Arts and Technology
University of California, Santa Barbara2026
M.A. Music Composition
University of California, Los Angeles2021

Sound & artistic practice

I also work as a sound designer and film composer, with film work presented at the Venice Biennale and Busan International Film Festival. My artistic practice explores sound, voice, language, and the environments we inhabit.

I write poetry with grains of sound and discrete reality.