Google recently launched a free online exhibit on the history of electronic music. The Google Arts & Culture platform is hosting the exhibition, dubbed Music, Makers, and Machines.
Over 50 institutions from fifteen countries had a hand in the presentation’s creation, including Hayward Gallery and the Sydney Opera House. The exhibit also showcases electronic music artists and articles on music studios around the globe, such as The Studio for Electroacoustic Music in Berlin.
Music, Makers, and Machines covers the history of synthesizers and forgotten instruments such as the theremin, a precursor to synthesizers. Users can also learn about old underground clubs of London and Berghain, the most famous club.
Arguably the most compelling feature of the Music, Makers and Machines exhibit, the AR Synth feature allows users to synthesize music using virtual versions of five synthesizers from the Swiss Museum for Electronic Music Instruments collection. The AR Synth includes a Fairlight CMI, Memorymoog, Akai S900, Roland CR-78, and ARP Odyssey, which can be utilized in augmented reality or a 3D environment. Users can either tap out their own beat or let Google randomly select notes.
Fully rotatable 3D images of 22 synthesizers are available, as well as articles on musical innovators and the evolution of dance culture. Google also provides a virtual catalog of over 6.5k flyers for raves, movies, and other events and media relating to electronic music.
Those new to the electronic music scene can take advantage of the exhibit’s beginner’s guide. The Music, Makers, and Machines exhibition even includes a downloadable lesson plan for teachers and parents to broaden the younger generation’s understanding of the genre.
Music, Makers, and Machines offers a plethora of videos, images, and articles pertaining to electronic music. The exhibition is currently accessible on desktop or via Google Arts & Culture for Android or iOS.
Jack Brassell is a freelance journalist and aspiring novelist. Jack is a self-proclaimed nerd with a lifelong passion for storytelling. As an author, Jack writes mostly horror and young adult fantasy. Also an avid gamer, she works as the lead news editor at Hardcore Droid. When she isn't writing or playing games, she can often be found binge-watching Parks & Rec or The Office, proudly considering herself to be a cross between Leslie Knope and Pam Beasley.
