The development of ‘‘21st century’’ acoustic and orchestral instruments

Abstract

The work of the Centre for New Musical Instruments (CNMI), recently established at London Guildhall University, is reported. In addition, a wide range of original slides is shown, providing an overview of international innovations relevant to the development of new versions of existing acoustic orchestral instruments, especially those offering new forms of expression to composers and performers. In view of the overwhelming majority of developments of electronic as opposed to acoustic instruments during the 20th century, the purpose of CNMI is to encourage innovations of the latter. Acoustic instruments designates not only those traditionally referred to by this term, but also those in which elements of sound generation may be electromechanical or electroacoustic, although sound diffusion is not through a loudspeaker. Three areas of innovation are discussed: (i) purely mechanical instruments; (ii) electromechanical and electroacoustic hybrids; and (iii) instruments designed for alternative tuning systems. All the orchestral families are considered. The mutually reinforcing possibilities and limitations of these elements, together with the evolving aesthetic issues of contemporary and other musics, suggests the importance of specific areas of future research and instrument making. Amongst these is the necessity of interdisciplinary perspectives and collaboration.