Questionnaire: Meng Qi
A few questions for the Chinese instrument maker
Meng Qi Music is a Beijing, China based builder of musical instruments. With instruments like the Wingie mk2 and the Honey, Meng Qi has made a name for himself with a unique sonic and visual design aesthetic. He also co-runs the Chinese-language synth media and education channel Synthesis Minority. He is currently working on his new instrument, the Horizon, designed in collaboration with Whimsical Raps.
We have reached out to Meng Qi with a little questionnaire that we designed to send to some of our friends for a quick round of short-form Q&A, complementary to our more long-form interviews. Below, Meng Qi goes into his brand philosophy, his first piece of gear, what's for lunch, and more!
What is your name and where are you based?
My name is Meng Qi. I am based in Beijing, China.
If you had to describe your brand in one sentence, what would you say?
I care about the balance of human and machine, control and chaos, melody and noise, etc.
In your opinion, what is something that is missing or lacking in the music technology / electronic music industry?
I believe that the industry is thriving and in good health.
Is there a “design philosophy” that drives your brand/products?
Balance.
What are you currently working on?
The project on a new synthesizer that Trent [of Whimsical Raps] and I are working on [as Timeless Garden] which is called Horizon. It's a standalone musical instrument.
What is the first electronic instrument or piece of gear you’ve bought?
The Korg N5EX.
How did you get into making musical instruments?
I was unsatisfied with the available instruments on the market in 2007, so I began making my own.
Do you think electronic music instrument technology will be radically different in the future?
The technology, no — but the form, yes.
Electronic musical instruments haven't benefited from the most cutting-edge technology for a long time. In fact, in many cases, ancient analog technology is still preferred. It's not about the technology anymore. I foresee a shift back to focusing on humans.
Is there a product of yours that you are particularly proud of?
The Horizon, which is coming soon.
Has there been an instance where users have changed how you view your own product?
It happens occasionally. That's one of the joys of designing musical instruments.
Are there any artists you rate that use your products?
Patchbaydoor, Dexba, Patchsinblue and Scanner
Why did you start Synthesis Minority?
I met Annqi, who is a pro in media. And that's where the journey began. Synthesis Minority is to share all things related to synthesizers, including technical knowledge and interesting stories.
What is an album that has shaped how you view music?
There would be too many albums for me to list.
Which place different from your home has left a big impression on you?
I believe the method of transportation is more significant than the destination itself. For instance, cycling through a place allows us to experience nature more intimately than in a car.
What is something you love about yourself?
This is a hard question because I have barely thought about it. I think people tend to unnecessarily focus on imperfection, especially when they are young and trying to fit in the world. But I'm lucky enough to survive this state of life. Now I can say that I accept and love myself.
What’s for lunch or dinner?
Hotpot! 🌶️
You can find out more about Meng Qi over on his website and Instagram.