Music Stories
In 1975, BBC spelled out how MUZAK — and musical power – worked, maybe
It’s a master class in Western “common practice” music and its power. It decodes complex music theory and its impact on the mind. It’s also got some deeply entertaining action with a bearded psychiatrist operating a reel-to-reel machine and filters. Let’s watch this 1975 episode of BBC’s Horizon on the science of music and MUZAK.
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3D masses, springs, soundmakers: Anukari physics-based instrument
We’ve got physical modeling for instruments, so why not pair them with physical modeling in 3D objects? Anukari is the latest instrument to do that, with lovely-looking modeled visuals and the ability to run as a plug-in as well as standalone.
Peter Kirn - May 4, 2025
DIY + Unusual Motion Music tech Software Tech
Mathematician explains resonant frequencies and how not to spill coffee
Since sound is a wave, there are, uh, resonances between audio and fluid dynamics. And that brings us to playground swings and how not to spill your coffee. Let’s let Oxford PhD math student Sophie Abrahams explain the research done by original author Jiwon Han.
Peter Kirn - January 4, 2024
Music tech Tech
The Commodordion: 8-bit instrument made of taped-together C64s and floppies
Peter Kirn - October 24, 2022
DIY + Unusual Music Music tech Tech
Bitwig Studio 4.1: color palettes, note FX with physics and more, Sampler release chaining
Peter Kirn - November 4, 2021
Music tech Software Tech
The beauty of wind organs, and how to make one yourself out of recycled materials
Peter Kirn - April 20, 2021
DIY + Unusual Tech
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