ABOUT ME
Shihang Gao, also known as Thomas Gao or by his stage name 2oo9ifirstcriedonline, is an experimental electronic musician, sound designer, and interdisciplinary artist. The name refers to his first encounter with the internet in 2009, which became a central influence on his life and work. After receiving his bachelor’s degree in Filmmaking from Sichuan University of Media and Communications, he is now pursuing a Master’s degree in Computer Music at the Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University. His practice moves between modular synthesis, cinematic sound, and contemporary art, with performances across venues in China such as Axis, Flaman Art Center, Circle Open Deck in Guilin, and XIPU World in Changchun.
His performances are defined by intricate rhythmic layers, polyphonic structures, and a blend of traditional timbres with experimental electronics, creating immersive sonic environments. He works fluidly across underground clubs, film sound design, and installation contexts.
Gao has received international recognition for sound design and composition in films including The Blue End of the Sky (finalist, Macau International Film Festival), Qian Kun (winner of Best Film, nominee for Best Sound Design), One Day Afloat (Best Cinematography, Best Film nominee), Reed Grass (third prize, Mammoth Youth Film Competition), and *%* (Best Sound Production winner). He curated the Resonance exhibition at the 2023 Chengdu Biennale Parallel Show and contributed sound to RCA London’s As Above, So Below. He has collaborated with Guǐfǒu band, artists Haar and Hardouken, and brands like Gaga Forest. He was part of Anjunadeep China, joined WE Records as artist and A&R, and released music with Soulnotes Label. His awards include third place in the Musicworks Electronic Music Composition Contest (2023) and second prize in the Shanghe Chord Remix Competition (2022).
Gao continues to expand the possibilities of sound through modular performance, film sound design, and interdisciplinary collaboration, aiming to connect audiences, disciplines, and cultures through sonic exploration.