Have you ever wanted to build your own musical instrument?  I have.  For years, I lacked the knowledge to create anything worthwhile.  I remember fashioning flutes out of PVC pipe when I was a kid.  They sounded horrible!  But then in 2007, I had an idea.  I wanted to build an instrument that responds to light.  Something like a harp, but with “light strings”.

As it turned out, I was not the first to think of this idea, and as I studied the electronics theory I would need to make this dream a reality, I also learned about some of the great inventors and tinkerers who had already tackled this seemingly monumental task.  From Bernard Szajner’s first laser harp to Stephen Hobley’s beautiful MIDI rendition of the instrument, it was clear that I had a lot to learn before I could hope to catch up to the leading edge.

But progressing rapidly from a beginner-level electronics kit to working with microcontrollers, I came to enjoy every challenge I encountered on this fantastic and educational odyssey.  Join me in exploring the future of music!

Looking for the AirHarp?  Check out:

http://www.airharp.com