An imagined instrument should explain how sound is meant to arise

A colourful outline alone does not describe a sound-making mechanism. Add the proposed moving or vibrating component and its action, labelling the concept as untested rather than promising what the finished instrument will sound like.

A drawn shaker design needs a proposed vibrating or moving component.

Annotate the intended action

Label the proposed sound-making action on the drawing. The design task concerns an idea whose actual sound would still require suitable testing.

Choose a sound purpose. Draw moving parts. Label untested assumptions.

How is sound intended to arise? Use an annotated diagram.

A paper design does not prove acoustic performance.

Resources

• Design an Instrument — Annotate an imagined instrument concept and distinguish it from a tested build.

Further reading

• Musica Viva Australia — education program

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