Georgia Tech Reveals Finalists in Unique Musical Instrument Contest
▼ Summary
– Georgia Tech has announced the finalists for its 28th annual Guthman Musical Instrument Competition, which awards $10,000 in prizes for newly designed instruments.
– This year’s finalists include unconventional instruments like a modular synth using saltwater for connections and a double bass combined with a traditional Indian veena.
– A notable finalist is the Demon Box, a commercial product that converts electromagnetic radiation from devices like phones into music and control signals for other synthesizers.
– Other finalists feature instruments designed for accessibility, such as an open-source synth for players with disabilities, and unique hybrids like a harp made from a bike wheel.
– The competition winner will be revealed after a concert on March 14th, with video demonstrations available for all ten finalists.
The annual Guthman Musical Instrument Competition at Georgia Tech has once again unveiled a remarkable lineup of finalists, showcasing the future of sound creation. Now in its 28th year, this unique contest attracts global inventors who submit their original instrument designs, competing for a share of $10,000 in prize money. The event has a storied history of launching influential innovators, with past participants including key figures from companies like Teenage Engineering, Artiphon, and Roli. Last year’s champion was KOMA Elektronik with their Chromaplane instrument.
This year’s selected entries represent a fascinating array of sonic experimentation. One standout is the Amphibian Modules, a modular synthesizer that replaces traditional patch cables with a conductive dish of saltwater, allowing performers to shape sound by manipulating the liquid. Another finalist, the Gajveena, merges the deep resonance of a double bass with the intricate string design of a traditional Indian veena. Then there’s Fiddle Henge, an installation-like piece where four green violins are mounted onto a bass drum and played using a spinning disk, creating a haunting, rhythmic texture.
Perhaps the most intriguing entry is the Demon Box, described as a chaotic triangle that transforms ambient electromagnetic radiation into audible music. Unlike many experimental prototypes, this device is already available for purchase from Eternal Research at $999. It detects invisible EMF from sources like cell phones or television remotes, converting these signals into both sound and control data like MIDI and CV to command other synthesizers.
The list of finalists also includes inventive designs such as the Lethelium, a hybrid instrument crafted from a bicycle wheel that functions as both a steel drum and a harp. Another notable submission is The Masterpiece, an open-source synthesizer equipped with RFID technology, specifically engineered to be accessible for musicians with disabilities. A dedicated video provides brief demonstrations and details for all ten finalists. The overall winner will be revealed after a special competition concert scheduled for Saturday, March 14th.
(Source: The Verge)