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Music & Wave Sims

 

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The purpose of this lab is to investigate the phenomena of beat interference and harmonics and applications such as tuning musical instruments  and determining unique voiceprints.

Part 1:  Beats Applet

In this Java applet, explore how waves of similar frequency can create interference patterns of alternative constructive and destructive regions to form beats--the secret to the perfectly tuned guitar!

 

Part 2:  Harmonics on A String

In this Java applet, explore how each musical instrument is able to generate a unique "voiceprint" by generating a unique set of harmonics to create a complex waveform rich in sound.

Part 3: Harmonics Applet

In this Java applet, explore how each instrument makes a unique sound by generating a unique set of resonant harmonics, as well as how digital synthesizers can reproduce almost any musical instrument!

 

SCROLL down to the bottom and pick "Harmonics Applet"!

(Alternate Link HERE only works at school)

   
Kameron Fry Live at the Luxor

Check out Hinsdale Central's finest band doing some jammin' physics--John A. and Dave D. perform some classic tunes with a twist!

Transforming ordinary PVC plumbing into a musical tour de force, these intrepid HC students duct taped pipes of the right calculated frequencies to John's mom's old shoe rack, and using an old toy plastic butcher knife and a piece of cardboard felt duct taped to a drum stick, they soon will be able to fill in as honorary members of the Blue Man Group!  :)

Jam Studio

Click on the link on the right to access Jam Studio, transforming your computer into a virtual sound studio!  Create your own groovy riffs and jammin' mixes to unleash your inner musician!

   
Send mail to jliaw@hinsdale86.org with questions or comments about this web site.
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