The Astronomical Synthesizer
Files
Abstract
This project consists of a live audiovisual performance inspired in astronomy, using analog modular synthesizers and sounds that correspond to astronomical spectra captured in Chile by Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) radio-telescope, converted into a sound pattern by previous project ALMA Sounds, which results are opened to the community for free artistic use. For the purpose of driving the audio of astronomical signals, a code-based music performance software is utilized, loaded into a dedicated small single-board computer which counts as another element of the modular synthesis setup. The idea is to formally relate the author’s two professional paths: astronomical instrumentation and music production. As astronomy and related images are in the public domain, one key aspect is being able to develop visual content that does not feel overused or predictable to the audience. The aim is to show this ancient science from a fresh but still rigorous perspective.
Publication Date
7-1-2020
Campus
Valencia (Spain) Campus
Keywords
analog; astronomy; audiovisual; digital; real-time; sound; synthesizer; telescope
Project Components
Project Components: project video (.mp4), reflection paper (.pdf), presentation (.pdf), performance video (.mp4).
Recommended Citation
Ramos Oliver, Nicolás. “The Astronomical Synthesizer.” Master's thesis, Berklee College of Music, 2020. https://remix.berklee.edu/graduate-studies-production-technology/221.