Robert Moog
Robert Moog
Full Name and Common Aliases
Robert Arthur Moog was born on May 23, 1934, in New York City to a family of German descent. He is commonly referred to as the "father of modern synthesizers."
Birth and Death Dates
Moog passed away on August 21, 2005, at the age of 71.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Robert Moog was an American engineer, inventor, and businessman who specialized in electronic music equipment. He held multiple patents for his innovative designs.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in Queens, New York, Robert Moog developed a fascination with electronics at an early age. His father, Albert Moog, was a machinist who built gadgets and gizmos for fun, inspiring young Robert to explore the world of electronics. Moog attended Phillips Exeter Academy before heading to Cornell University, where he studied electrical engineering.
Major Accomplishments
Moog's most significant contribution to music history is the invention of the Moog synthesizer. In 1955, while working on his doctorate at Cornell, Moog began experimenting with electronic circuits and amplifiers. He created a prototype of the first voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) in 1964, which became the core component of the Moog synthesizer.
Notable Works or Actions
The Moog synthesizer revolutionized music production by allowing musicians to create new sounds and textures. The instrument was first used by electronic music pioneers such as Karlheinz Stockhausen and Herbert von Karajan. In the 1960s, the Moog became a staple in popular music, with artists like Keith Emerson, Rick Wakeman, and Wendy Carlos using it to create iconic sounds.
Impact and Legacy
Robert Moog's innovations had far-reaching consequences for music production. His designs paved the way for modern synthesizers, drum machines, and digital audio workstations. The Moog brand has continued to innovate and influence electronic music equipment design.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Moog's contributions to music history are undeniable. He was a true pioneer who expanded the possibilities of sound creation. His legacy can be seen in the countless musicians, producers, and engineers who have built upon his designs. As a testament to his impact, Moog is widely quoted by electronic music enthusiasts, historians, and industry professionals alike.
As an engineer and inventor, Robert Moog embodied the spirit of innovation and creativity that continues to inspire new generations of musicians and sound designers. His groundbreaking work has left an indelible mark on the world of music, ensuring his enduring legacy as a visionary in the field of electronic music equipment design.
Quotes by Robert Moog
Back in the 40s and early 50s, building simple electronic projects was a popular hobby of many people. Back then, you could buy, you know, a few parts and – with tubes and build something on your kitchen table, and it would actually work.
What inspires me is not so much the music as the opportunity to interact with composers. I think that has driven everything I’ve done.
One always has to remember these days where the garbage pail is, because it’s so easy to make sounds, and to put sounds together into something that appears to be music, but it’s just as hard as it always was to make good music.
Part of what I do is a craft, but part of what I do is a science. And I guess the craft comes in knowing what science to use and what science not to use.
By the time I got to building synthesizers, I had perhaps 20 years experience building electronic musical instruments.
Back in the 40s and early 50s, building simple electronic projects was a popular hobby of many people. Back then, you could buy, you know, a few parts and - with tubes and build something on your kitchen table, and it would actually work.
I'm an engineer, ... I see myself as a toolmaker, and the musicians are my customers. They use the tools.
It's certainly more than a technological activity, although we instrument designers certainly use electronic technology as a design tool. But I wouldn't call it an artistic activity. We're toolmakers. Making tools is a craft, maybe even a high craft. I'd say that we are craftsmen rather than artists.