88bit is the alter ego of Cleveland-based pianist, Rob Kovacs, where he performs note-for-note piano arrangements of classic video game soundtracks from the original Nintendo Entertainment System. Kovacs’ performances are unique in that they recreate early electronic music that was never intended to be performed by humans, stretching the limits of traditional piano playing. Kovacs has been performing as 88bit since 2018 and has played at events such as the Super MAGFest, PAX South, the Mensa National Gathering, NeoSonic Fest, Classic Game Fest, Confluence and others. He has been interviewed about 88bit by NPR’s “Sound of Applause” (WCPN Cleveland), NPR’s “Shuffle” (WKSU Kent), and for www.blownspeakers.com.
88bit is supported by an amazing group of generous supporters on Patreon. Learn more at www.88bitmusic.com
Outside of 88bit, Kovacs is an award-winning composer, pianist and singer/songwriter. He is the first person to perform Steve Reich’s Piano Phase solo by simultaneously playing both piano parts on two pianos. Kovacs also performs as a solo singer/songwriter as well as fronts the indie-rock bands Math + Logic and Return of Simple, the latter of which plays regionally and who’s music has been played on satellite, college and Pandora radio. He has performed and recorded with other artists including Mega Ran, Mark Mothersbaugh, Parson James, Sandra Bernhard, Natalie Weiss, Rachel Potter, Grace Love, Margot Bingham, and Herzog.
