Don Rickert Musical Instruments

Electro-mechanically Augmented Violin by Don Rickert (the Details)

EAAV-A, plus B+B+C “EAAV” is an acronym for Electro-mechanically Augmented Violin. “A” refers to version, in this case Version A. “B+B+C” stands for baritone, bass and contra-bass. An “Augmented” Musical Instrument Augmented musical instruments like EAAV-A, plus B+B+C are inspired by existing acoustic instruments, building upon their existing design, playing technique and performance practice, with new electronic and/or electro-mechanical vibrating elements added that extend their expressive capabilities. “Augmented” instruments are closely related to “Actuated” instruments.... Read more →

Augmented and Actuated Acoustic Musical Instruments

Common Definition of “Augmented” and “Actuated” Musical Instruments: Musical instruments inspired by existing acoustic instruments, building upon their existing design, playing technique and performance practice with new electronic and/or electro-mechanical vibrating elements added that extend their expressive capabilities Difference in emphasis between “Actuated” (as commonly used by researchers and designers of such instruments) and “Augmented” Instruments Indeed, “Actuated” and “Augmented” musical instruments BOTH generally use a large number of electronic filters to “shape” sound output... Read more →

What is a filter in the context of musical instruments?

Also posted at www.WildRockStudios.com Musical instrument makers have been using filters to shape the sound of their instruments since, I suppose, the first musical instrument. For example, the evolution of early bowed string instruments to the modern violin reflects a corresponding evolution of filter design. And the evolution continues! Well-studied and frequently-cited filters critical to a violin are: Types of wood and thickness Physical shape and dimensionsType of glue used The varnish Topology of the... Read more →