Instrumentation Laboratory Project Page
Project: Electroacoustical Musical Apparatus
Department: Music
Primary Investigator: Dr. Per Bloland
Purpose:
The Electromagnetically Prepared Piano device consists of a rack of
electromagnets which rests on the frame of a grand piano. The
electromagnets receive an audio signal, generally sent from a computer,
and in turn cause the piano strings to vibrate at the specified
frequencies. The resultant sounds range from simple sine tones through
complex, often ethereal textures. For the most part these timbres are
more evocative of electronically synthesized sonorities than of the
acoustic piano strings from which they emanate.
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IL
Comment:
Project was done in two steps. Originally, PI came to IL, asked IL for
help in simplifying his mechanical mounting system, which entailed a
very lengthy and difficult set up procedure and his apparatus was
difficult to transport. The IL designed a new mounting and
adjustment system that dramatically simplified his procedure for setup
and also reduced the time required. Also eased difficulty in
transporting system. After the inital mechanical
project was completed, PI decided to increase the size of the coil used
with his system, which facilitated a need to increase the power
required for
the system. IL designed a new power and connnection system, (along with
packaging) which will
furnish the needed power and allow for more reliable electronic
connections.
Cost to
researcher: $471.76