This is Love Switched-On
Jul 10, 2024
Charlie Harding, a songwriter and music journalist, and Nate Sloan, a musicologist, dive deep into the revolutionary legacy of Wendy Carlos and her groundbreaking album 'Switched-On Bach.' They discuss the synthesizer's remarkable journey from its 1890s invention to redefining musical genres. The pair explores the fusion of classical music and electronic sound, highlighting how Carlos overcame obstacles to pave the way for future artists. Personal anecdotes reveal the artistry behind synthesizers, shedding light on key figures who shaped the electronic music landscape.
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Synthesizer's Early Controversy
- The synthesizer initially faced anxiety about replacing human musicians and was seen as mechanical and lifeless.
- It challenged traditional music roles and was feared to replace orchestra musicians with technicians.
Wendy Carlos Meets Bob Moog
- Wendy Carlos discovered early modular synthesizers at a convention, waking Bob Moog who became her collaborator.
- Their partnership combined engineering with musical creativity, advancing synthesizer development.
Synthesizer and Bach's Music
- Bach's music, with unspecified instrumentation, suits the synthesizer's ability to clearly separate individual voices.
- The synthesizer brings clarity to Baroque compositions, revealing voices lost in traditional orchestral reverb.
