Kris Halpin

My work happens at the intersection between Music, Technology & Disability. Most people know me for playing the MiMu Gloves, a futuristic wearable instrument. As a person facing physical and neurodivergent barriers to music, this wearable AI technology developed by Imogen Heap has allowed me to make music at the cutting edge of what is possible. My live show, The Gloves Are On, has been seen by tens of thousands of people across the UK, Europe the US and Japan. In 2017 it was nominated for a National Lottery Award for Best Arts Project.

My work has significantly amplified the conversation about music and Disability. For many years I toured and was met with the same sentiment – “I’ve never seen a Disabled person on stage before!” – which, whilst keeping me busy, highlights a real systemic issue. I’m grateful that my platform has allowed me to amplify other Disabled artist’s voices and improve wider representation.

I release music under the name Dyskinetic, and as an artist I’ve worked with such varied greats as Imogen Heap, Philip Selway (Radiohead) and Tokyo Symphony Orchestra.

In 2024 I was named as a Trailblazer by Mastercard for their Future Sound Of Britain campaign in partnership with the BRIT Awards.

I am the Artistic Director of Music at Sense, where I lead on a musical inclusion strategy that brings music making to people with Complex Disabilities.

I have also worked with a wide range of organisations including Attitude Is Everything, Drake Music and Independent Venue week to raise awareness of the issues Disabled artists face, and advocating for real change across the music sectors.

I didn’t set out with much of a mission beyond making the best music could, but my being Disabled has been at the centre of my story. It’s allowed me to challenge perceptions and move the needle on musical inclusion on an international scale. I know how much value music has brought to my life, and I want everyone to be able to enjoy that; music truly is for everyone.