John Chowning

John Chowning is a pioneering figure in electroacoustics, best known for developing FM synthesis, a key technology in electronic music. FM synthesis allows for the creation of complex sounds by modulating one wave frequency with another, making it possible to produce a wide range of tones and timbres. His work in the 1960s not only influenced music composition but also shaped the development of synthesizers, like the Yamaha DX7, which became iconic in the 1980s. Chowning’s innovations have had a lasting impact on music production, sound design, and the broader field of acoustic research.