Augmenting the piano to elicit new sounds acoustically
The Magnetic Resonator Piano is an electronically-augmented acoustic piano capable of eliciting new sounds acoustically from the piano’s strings, without the use of speakers. Developed by Bela co-founder Andrew McPherson at the Augmented Instruments Laboratory, the MRP brings continuous note shaping to the acoustic piano — and with it, an immense sonic palette ready to be explored. Bela is thrilled to announce taking over the production of this unique instrument.
The MRP installs in any grand piano, where its electromagnets induce vibrations in the strings independently of the hammers, creating infinite sustain, crescendos, harmonics, pitch bends and new timbres, all controlled from the piano keyboard and without the need to interact with a computer. The installation process is completely non-invasive and does nothing to alter the fundamental characteristics of your grand piano.
The MRP has previously been explored by the likes of Arca, These New Puritans, Jon Brion, Echo Collective, Xenia Pestova and more. See how they’ve explored the MRP below. More technical information and details on existing repertoire can be found on Andrew McPherson’s site.
Videos of the Magnetic Resonator Piano #
Get in touch #
If you are a professional studio, composer, musician or sound designer and are interested in working with the MRP, get in touch with us via our contact page. The MRP is available for hire and commission. If you would like to be updated with any news relating to the MRP then you can join our dedicated mailing list.
