The Institute of Mathematics and its Applications

North Hampshire, Surrey & Berkshire Branch

invites you to hear:

Mathematics of Rock Guitars'

by

Martin Lewney

Abstract:  What causes the revolutionary, history-changing sound of rock guitar, and how does it help us to understand the nature of the stuff we’re made of? Famelab winner Mark Lewney explains the maths of rock using riffs from Vivaldi to AC/DC, explains the secret of the Stradivarius and shows how string vibrations might lie at the heart of the Big Questions about the universe. In this entertaining and mind-expanding lecture, acoustics expert Dr. Lewney explains the maths of vibrations with the help of props as diverse as an air-bazooka, a bullwhip and his custom Ibanez electric guitar through a Marshall amp, turned up loud, with live demonstrations of expert rock guitar playing throughout. Charming stories and mind-bending animations are used to try to get the audience to think in 4-, 5- or even 11-D. This introduction to Superstring Theory shares the wonder and excitement of such grand scale, cutting edge maths and physics.

If you expect to attend please inform the Branch Membership Secretary, Ann Steptoe at annsteptoe@hotmail.com as this will help with the catering arrangements. However, if you don't get round to doing this, feel free to just turn up.