[sdiy] So just what *is* the Buchla 291?

[Paul Perry]

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "David G. Dixon" > Yes, I was aware of Raymond Scott's sequencer. 
However, I'm not convinced
> that Moog delayed making one out of deference to Scott.  I think he 
> delayed
> making one until someone (Wendy Carlos?) asked him for one.
>

Fortunately, there is a letter by Raymond Scott that puts this straight.
>From http://www.raymondscott.com/moog.html

"Gentlemen: I have a story that may be of interest to you.
It is not widely known who invented the circuitry concept for the automatic 
sequential performance of musical pitches - now well known as a sequencer.

I, however, do know who the inventor was - for it was I who first conceived 
and built the sequencer.

Bob Moog, who visited me occasionally at my lab on Long Island, was among 
the first to see and witness the performance of my UJT-Relay sequencer.

To digress for a bit: I was so secretive about my development activities - 
perhaps neurotically so - that I was always reminding Bob that he mustn't 
copy or reveal my sequencer work to anyone. I understand, now, my personal 
need for secrecy at that time. Electronic music for commercials and films 
was my living then - and I thought I had this great advantage - because of 
my sequencer.

Word naturally got around about the nature of what my device accomplished, 
but Bob Moog continued to be loyal. I must say Bob Moog is a most honorable 
person. He steadfastly refrained from embodying my sequencer in his 
equipment line until the sheer pressure of so many manufacturers using the 
sequencer forced him to compete. Yet, he used the simplest version, though 
he knew about my most advanced sequencer. Quite a gentleman, and a super 
talent besides.

Now, with the passing of years, I guess I regret my secrecy and would like 
for people to know of what I accomplished."

A lot of great reading on that page.
paul perry Melbourne Australia