Where music and technology meet
WOOFYTWooden One-octave Organ For Young Technologists; n. a novel and challenging experience combining Music, Science & Technology
Although music can seem like a world apart from science, technology and engineering, there are lots of connections to be explored. The WOOFYT makes these connections visible and audible, linking music in a simple and direct way with the physics of fluids and the technology of pumps and valves.
We really enjoyed ourselves and feel we learnt a large amount … We all had such good fun and hope that you will come again.
Thank you also for a wonderful day. Even my knowledge of physics has improved! The children had a really super time and I will endeavour to pass on work.
There are pumps and valves at work everywhere: in homes, offices, factories, farms, cars, trains, ships, aeroplanes, space rockets - and inside living creatures, including ourselves. Mostly they work automatically, hidden from view and unnoticed.
Nothing about the WOOFYT is automatic. To play a simple tune, everyone has to work together to create and maintain a flow of air at the correct pressure, as well as playing the right notes at the right time. This cross-curriculum project is great fun for people of all ages - musicians and non-musicians alike.
The WOOFYT won an Arts for Business regional award in 2006 - judged to be 'the most innovative business and arts project 2002 - 2006'. It has travelled throughout the UK and beyond, most notably to St Paul's Cathedral. A WOOFYT flourishes in New Zealand.