Support ‘Instrumental,’ a new Podcast on musical instruments

Hi, My name is Dr Mike Baldwin and I am an organologist. I am seeking £500 to kickstart Instrumental, a new podcast on musical instruments.

As an organologist I study instruments, their makers and users and what they tells us about our history. I am the author of Harp Making in Late Georgian London (2020) and I regularly present papers on the history of instruments at organological and historical conferences on a range of topics from musical instrument making in London to crime and instrument makers. I also make and restore harps, write on diverse subjects from organology to cultural history and folklore, and sometimes I'm found elbow-deep in museum collections photographing and measuring instruments.

Music is a universal language, and musical instruments are its voice. From ancient flutes crafted from bone to cutting-edge electronic synthesisers, the story of musical instruments is the story of human culture, creativity, and connection. Organology, the fascinating science of musical instruments, unravels their histories, design, manufacture, collection, and classification.

Why I Need Your Support

I’m launching a podcast to explore this rich and vibrant field, and I need your help to make it resonate. To bring these stories to life, I’m seeking funding for recording equipment (a Zoom H4N Pro voice recorder) and microphones (a pair of Shure SM58s with stands). With your support, we can ensure that every note, interview, and sound is captured with clarity, precision, and the quality.

Why This Podcast Matters

Musical instruments are more than tools for creating sound; they are cultural artefacts, technological achievements, and personal treasures. Yet, the stories behind them are often overlooked. Through this podcast, I aim to:

• Educate: Explore how instruments are made, how they evolved, and how they function. Learn about the physics of sound and the artistry of instrument design.

• Inspire: Highlight the creativity of luthiers, inventors, and musicians who push the boundaries of what instruments can do.

• Preserve: Share the histories and stories of rare and endangered instruments, connecting listeners to the cultural and historical contexts in which they were created.

• Celebrate Diversity: Showcase instruments from every corner of the globe, revealing the rich tapestry of human expression through sound.

By blending expert interviews, captivating stories, and the sounds of instruments themselves, the podcast will deliver an immersive experience that sparks curiosity and deepens appreciation for the world of organology.

Be Part of the Journey

By supporting this podcast, you’ll help preserve and celebrate the art and science of musical instruments for a global audience. Whether you’re a musician, a music lover, or simply someone who appreciates the power of storytelling, your contribution will make a meaningful impact.

Let’s make music history come alive. Thank you for your support!

Thank you

Dr Mike Baldwin