Professor Milton Mermikides explores the harmonic, rhythmic and timbral grammar that made Nirvana’s music both raw and revolutionary.

Far from accidental, the band’s sound emerged from salient choices in harmony, rhythm, production, and guitar technique – decisions that blurred the boundaries between noise and melody, angst and beauty.

Through close analysis of song examples, performance practices, and the broader aesthetics of grunge, this talk uncovers how Nirvana crafted music that resonated with a generation, revealing the hidden structures beneath its visceral surface.

Professor Milton Mermikides is an academic, writer, composer and guitarist. He is the 37th Gresham Professor of Music (a historic post that has been running since 1597), Professor of Music at the University of Surrey, and Professor of Jazz Guitar at the Royal College of Music. He is the Deputy Director of The International Guitar Research Centre, and his lectures and music are presented internationally. His latest book, Hidden Music is published by Cambridge University Press. miltonline.com

Make the most of your visit by exploring Kurt Cobain Unplugged | Royal College of Music at the Royal College of Music Museum before the talk - see his legendary Martin guitar on display for the first time in Europe.