Jacob Wilkinson

An immersive sound installation comprising a large monochord prepared with electromagnets meant to encourage visitors to participate in deep listening.

Description

A sound installation using a large pythagorean monochord prepared with electromagnets. The electromagnets serve as a resonant feedback circuit. Each of 31 strings is tuned to the same fundamental frequency and covered by two electromagnetic coils, one sensing the resonant frequency of the string and the other driving it at this frequency through an amplifier. The monochord is placed in a sound-treated room and the sound swells and recedes as the strings pick up sympathetic resonances and feed them back. The audible harmonic overtones continually evolve developing a song for the listener. Careful and deep listening will present a subtle, yet complex, sound texture encouraging visitors to be present.

Classes

Thesis