Georgia Tech Announces Unconventional Musical Instrument Finalists

The annual Guthman Musical Instrument Competition has announced its finalists, showcasing an array of innovative and unconventional instruments from around the world. Twenty-eight years old, this competition continues to attract talented inventors who push the boundaries of sound creation. Among this year’s finalists is Amphibian Modules, a modular synth that replaces traditional patch cables with a dish of saltwater, allowing users to manipulate sound through chemical reactions. Another contender is the Gajveena, which combines the versatility of a double bass with the traditional Indian instrument, the tanpura, creating an enchanting and eclectic sound. The competition has consistently yielded intriguing results, featuring past winners such as founding members of Teenage Engineering, Artiphon, and Roli, who have made significant contributions to music innovation. Last year’s winner, KOMA Elektronik, took home the $10,000 prize for their creation, the Chromaplane. This year’s finalists promise to deliver an exciting experience for music enthusiasts, with their creations set to captivate audiences and inspire new perspectives on sound design.