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Thesis Info

LABS ID
00571
Thesis Title
Silicon Luthiers: Contemporary Practices in Electronic Music Hardware
Author
Ezra J. Teboul
2nd Author
3rd Author
Degree
Master of Arts
Year
2015
Number of Pages
226
University
Dartmouth College
Thesis Supervisor
Spencer Topel
Supervisor e-mail
topel AT dartmouth.edu
Other Supervisor(s)
Michael Casey, Aden Evens
Language(s) of Thesis
English
Department / Discipline
Digital Musics
Languages Familiar to Author
French, English, Spanish, Bulgarian
URL where full thesis can be found
redthunderaudio.com/mastersthesis
Keywords
Abstract: 200-500 words
This thesis focuses on the development of luthiery in contemporary electronic music instruments. Following a definition of the concept of post-optimal objects, a brief history of circuit design and electronic music offers context for an analysis of recent projects, linking open documentation to invention, do it yourself, hacking, bending and self-learning. These projects are further contextualized by a series of interviews with their authors. By working through results and processes, this document exposes how these items can be described post-optimal objects. Through a personalization of the devices, these varied design methods allows individuals to curate more satisfying interactions with their instruments, audiences and professional community.