The electronic music studios at Rice were established in 1977 by Arthur Gottschalk. The analog electronic instruments initially available were a Wavemaker IV and a group of PAIA modules which were constructed by Gottschalk. In addition, many tape machines were used for manipulation of source material.

During the first ten years, the Rice studios mounted huge multimedia events annually, including Houston’s first laser light sculptures. Each concert featured eminent guest composers (Mario Davidovsky, Sylvia Pengilly, Joan LaBarbara, Thomas Clark, and others) and guest ensembles ranging from large dance companies to cutting edge rock bands. Throughout the years, the studios have continued to produce annual public concerts up to the present day. In recent years, other composers associated with the studios include David Soley, Ron Ochoa, Chapman Welch, and Kurt Stallmann.