Photophonia // The Secret Music of Light Waves

Students will learn how to listen to the sound of light. Sound waves aren’t the only kind of waves in this world, and by using some basic electronics, we can translate one wave phenomenon to another, and eavesdrop on the unheard oscillations hidden inside electronic light. Any light flickering more than about 20 cycles per second appears to be constant; this is the “persistence of vision” phenomenon which makes it possible to see the motion in film. But 20 cycles per second is at the very bottom of our range of hearing—we can hear vibrations as high as 20,000! If every light we see is throbbing with some unheard vibration, then what chords are hidden in our surroundings?

This course will teach students the history and technique of listening to light waves, which actually has its origins in some of the earliest forms of electronic music. In addition to building a very simple, rugged “light pickup” to take home, students will also learn the various techniques of successfully listening to light waves. Topics include but are not limited to: why neon bulbs sound different than incandescent bulbs; why natural light sources sound different from electronic sources; and how to use a laser pointer to make a laser turntable (to listen to the grooves of your corduroys).

This class will include a lengthy field-trip listening excursion to Times Square, whose concentration of light pollution and electronic displays make it the perfect location to eavesdrop on light waves. Students will bring their own circuits and hear a symphony of light!

Open to students of all levels. No previous soldering experience required!  This course covers material also taught in our Microphonia course.

See a video example here: http://vimeo.com/13617192

Instructor:

 Daniel Fishkin is a sound artist and musician. He regularly teaches classes in experimental/musical electronics at Harvestworks and colleges including SAIC and Bard College. To view examples of his work, check out this link: http://vimeo.com/16402766.

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