Gualala Arts Lecture Series presents:
The Physics of Musical Instruments

with Bryant Hichwa
Monday, September 17, 2007, 7:00 p.m.
$5 donation requested

Gualala Arts is pleased to have a lecture by Bryant Hichwa titled "The Physics of Musical Instruments" on Monday, September 17 at 7:00 p.m. Join Bryant in exploring the physics behind musical instruments. We have all wondered what makes a Stradivarius violin so special. Is it the shape of the violin or the wood it's made of or possibly the varnish finish? You may have enjoyed a concert piece played on a "Strad." When one listens to such an instrument, you know it's special. But is there scientific evidence that we can measure to give us more insight into what makes these instruments stand apart?

During this lecture Bryant will demonstrate string, woodwind and various percussion instruments. He will take a violin apart in order to gain an understanding of what produces the wonderful complex tones. He'll demonstrate the standing waves produced when we bow or pluck a string. He'll show the harmonic spectrum associated with various woodwinds such as the clarinet. Finally the audience will be involved to demonstrate a number of unique percussion instruments from around the world.

About Bryant Hichwa

Bryant Hichwa is currently Professor of Physics and Astronomy at Sonoma State University and a recent recipient of the campus teaching award; he teaches an upper level General Education class titled "The Physics of Music." He has appeared as an invited guest on NPR's Science Friday discussing the physics of musical instruments. Bryant is a committed environmentalist; President of the Board of Audubon Canyon Ranch; past president of Sonoma County's Madrone Audubon Society; an avid birdwatcher and semi-professional nature photographer.

The Gualala Arts Center, located at 46501 Old State Highway in Gualala, CA,
is open weekdays 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and weekends from noon to 4:00 p.m.
Please call (707) 884-1138 for more information, or email info@gualalaarts.org.

Serving the coastal communities of northern Sonoma & southern Mendocino Counties.