Central Branch

Good Vibrations: The Acoustics of Stringed Instruments

NHBC, NHBC House, Davy Avenue, Milton Keynes, MK5 8HP

Dr Bernard Richardson, Cardiff University

Wednesday 20 January 2016

Evening Meeting - 18:30 for 19:00

A Joint Meeting with Milton Keynes Acoustic Guitar Group

Dr Bernard Richardson is a leading expert on the physics of stringed instruments, particularly the guitar and violin family. Dr Richardson has used advanced quantitative techniques such as laser interferometry, finite element analysis and boundary element method to gain a full understanding of the mechanical vibrations of instruments and the sound fields that they produce. In addition to the quantitative analysis, psychoacoustical listening tests have been employed to relate the physical parameters of instruments to perceived sound quality.

Dr Richardson’s work is leading to an objective understanding of the ways in which the construction of instruments affects their perceived tone and playing qualities.

In this presentation, Dr Richardson explains that vibrations make sound and that sound makes music.  Analysis of the vibrations of stringed instruments gives a fascinating insight into how they work and the many factors which govern their sound quality.  This presentation and demonstration takes you on a guided tour of the vibrations of guitars and violins, looking at everything from the simple vibrations of strings to the more complicated vibrations of the wooden body.  The lecture explains why the sound of stringed instruments are so harmonious and explain how lasers and computers can help us understand what makes a really great instrument.

As has become customary after Central Branch Meetings held at NHBC, discussions will continue at a local Indian Restaurant.

If you have any questions about the meeting then please contact the meeting organiser, Mike Breslin, by e-mail mbreslin@anv.uk.com.