Encik Elvin Dainal

Elvin Dainal is a composer, multi-instrumentalist, music producer, and lecturer at the Academy of Arts and Creative Technology, Universiti Malaysia Sabah. He is recognized for his expertise in concert music composition, studio-based music production, and the traditional and contemporary music of Sabah.
As a composer and performer, his works have been featured in the Malaysian Composer Series (2012, 2013, 2016), Musical Borneo Concert (2012), Bridges Collective Ensemble Concert in Australia (2012), and the Borelis Brass Quintet Evening Concert in the United States (2012). He has represented Malaysia internationally, including performing at the 29th ISME World Conference in Beijing (2010).

In Sabah’s popular music industry, he has produced and performed widely, achieving recognition such as Best Bass Player at Band Idol II (2008). He also actively promotes traditional music, showcasing the sompoton at Pesta Kaamatan (RTM TV1 & TV2, 2012).

As a researcher, his work focuses on the cultural heritage of Kadazandusun music, particularly the evolution of Sumazau popular music and its role in expressing local identity. His current doctoral study explores a hybrid AI–human framework for studio production of Sumazau popular music, integrating technology with cultural heritage. This research aims to establish a culturally authentic, human-centred workflow in digital audio workstations (DAWs), where artificial intelligence serves as a supportive tool rather than a replacement for human creativity. Through this approach, he seeks to redefine production standards for cultural sound heritage in the modern music industry.