“Hearing the Aeolynth felt like stepping into a dream where sound and motion were one.”

The Aeolynth is a synthetic wind instrument, crafted to deliver an unparalleled combination of expressivity, technological innovation, and versatility. Designed as part of Tromleorkestret’s unique ensemble, it stands as a testament to the seamless fusion of handcrafted materials and cutting-edge technology.

The name “Aeolynth” combines “Aeolus,” the Greek god of wind, with “synth,” emphasizing its synthetic origins. It evokes a sense of grandeur and mythological power, perfectly fitting for a custom wind instrument capable of producing epic, awe-inspiring sounds.

Key Components and Functionality

1. Capacitive Touch Key System
   • Design: The Aeolynth features three octaves of capacitive touch buttons made from furniture nails, chosen for their tactile feel and visual appeal.
   • Technology: These keys are powered by MPR101 capacitive touch sensors, ensuring precise and responsive input detection.
   • Chord Capabilities: Unlike traditional wind instruments, the Aeolynth allows for chord playing, enabling the performer to produce rich harmonies and explore musical possibilities that are typically unattainable in similar instruments.
2. Mouthpiece with Pressure Sensor
   • Component: A salvaged clarinet mouthpiece fitted with an Adafruit MPRLS Breakout pressure sensor captures the breath intensity of the performer.
   • Expressive Dynamics: The pressure input controls parameters such as volume, attack, and timbre, allowing nuanced musical phrasing.
3. Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU)
   • Component: The instrument integrates an Adafruit BNO055 IMU sensor, capable of detecting roll, pitch, and yaw.
   • Dynamic Modulation: These motion-based inputs enable expressive control over effects like vibrato, glissando, or spatial audio manipulation, adding an interactive and immersive dimension to performances.
4. Microcontroller Unit (MCU)
   • Component: The Adafruit ESP32-S3 FEATHER 4MB/2MB PSRAM microcontroller serves as the brain of the Aeolynth, processing inputs from the keys, pressure sensor, and IMU.
   • Communication Protocol: Data is transmitted using Open Sound Control (OSC), ensuring high-speed, low-latency communication with external audio systems.
5. Sound Engine and Audio Processing
   • Custom Engine: Tromleorkestret employs a proprietary sound engine, developed in C++, to process and generate audio from the Aeolynth’s inputs. This engine is tailored to support the unique characteristics of their instruments.
   • Embedded Solutions: Bela platforms are used to deliver high-quality, real-time audio processing across the ensemble’s instruments, ensuring flawless integration with the Aeolynth.
   • MaxMSP Integration: The team also utilizes MaxMSP for specific audio applications, combining the best of custom programming and graphical tools.
6. Commercial Software Synergy
   • Tromleorkestret strategically integrates industry-leading audio software when appropriate to achieve optimal results, balancing custom development with proven commercial solutions.

Innovative Performance Capabilities

One of the Aeolynth’s most groundbreaking features is its ability to play chords. This capability transforms the instrument into a harmonic powerhouse, enabling the performer to layer rich textures and create orchestral-like arrangements. Combined with its expressive breath control, motion-sensing capabilities, and the ability to interface seamlessly with both custom and commercial audio systems, the Aeolynth pushes the boundaries of what a wind instrument can achieve.

Conclusion

The Aeolynth is a revolutionary step forward in wind instrument design, offering unparalleled versatility and expressivity. Its chord-playing capability, combined with dynamic control and cutting-edge technology, makes it a centerpiece of Tromleorkestret’s innovative musical vision, capable of delivering performances that are as extraordinary as the instrument itself.