acoustic research

Byron Autrey

Byron Autrey can tell you everything you need to know about how a trumpet works! And I mean everything. He has studied the craft of trumpet design for decades, having been a player all of his life. The mathematical approach he takes in understanding the flow of air and the vibration of the mouthpiece led him on many capers, including his most current project, designing a trumpet with Doc Severinsen. As a symphonic musician, Byron can relate to all levels of players and he uses that knowledge in every horn he develops.

William and Patricia Bartolini

William and Patricia Bartolini are among the world’s foremost experts on the science of acoustics. Their early publications on the subject in the 1960s and 70s have since become standard references in the study of waveforms and acoustic sound patterns. Their names are equally well known for their innovative line of guitar and bass pick-ups and electronics. The Bartonlini Pickup and Electronics Company began in 1973 and have since developed products played by a host of endorsees including the Novax series played by John Mayer and th

Jacob Malta

Jacob Malta is an innovator in designing handbells and hand chimes. His approach to product development and engineering has led to several important advancements in the tonal quality and manufacturing of handbells. His company, MalMark, has been a leader in the industry for over 50 years. Throughout his career, Jacob has been a devoted pioneer in percussion and has written several articles on his research in acoustic science.

Norman Pickering

Norman Pickering has had a storied career. He has worked as instrument designer for the legendary C.G. Conn Company in Elkhart. He has also played a large role in the audio engineering field with his company, Pickering Audio, which produced record pick-ups for radio stations around the world and designed the modern phonograph cartridge. As an engineer, he has also worked on airplanes and even medical ultrasound techniques, yet he is never too far from the field of musical engineering.

Joseph Rashid

Joseph Rashid studied the art of violin-making like few others. His goal was not to mass produce the instrument or even to sell them, but rather to hand-make the instruments based on scientific evidence. When he could not locate data on frequency measurements, he conducted his own studies to produce the needed data. These studies helped him create a violin with a higher quality of sound and he happily shared his finding with other luthiers. The results of many of his studies