99% Invisible Player Piano
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Jun 27, 2023 
Ben Nodaf-Haffrey, producer and host of "The Last Archive," dives into the fascinating life of composer Raymond Scott and his quest to create an automatic songwriting machine. They explore the tension between human creativity and technology, spotlighting the innovative Electroneum machine. The discussion also touches on the importance of preserving musical history, the impact of AI on art, and the rise of a new band navigating the music industry. Prepare for a captivating journey through the world of electronic soundscapes and the complex relationships shaping music history.
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Discovery of Raymond Scott
- Erwin Chuzid, a broke radio DJ, discovered Raymond Scott's forgotten music.
- His obsession led him to Scott's dilapidated home, filled with strange machines and a mysterious, large metal console.
Birth of the Dream
- Scott's fascination with mechanical music began in his family's music shop.
- The player piano, capable of reproducing music without a human performer, sparked his interest in automation.
Player Piano's Impact
- The player piano, often seen as a novelty, was a significant step in automation history.
- It foreshadowed future technologies, influencing copyright laws and even early computer programs.