3D printing technology in musical instrument research: reviewing the potential

Purpose: This paper aims to discuss additive manufacturing (AM) in the context of applications for musical instruments. It examines the main AM technologies used in musical instruments, goes through a history of musical applications of AM and raises the questions about the application of AM to create completely new wind instruments that would be impossible to produce with conventional manufacturing. Design/methodology/approach: A literature research is presented which covers a historical application of AM to musical instruments and hypothesizes on some potential new applications. Findings: AM has found extensive application to create conventional musical instruments with unique aesthetics designs. It’s true potential to create entirely new sounds, however, remains largely untapped. Research limitations/implications: More research is needed to truly assess the potential of additive manufacturing to create entirely new sounds for musical instrument. Practical implications: The application of AM in music could herald an entirely new class of musical instruments with unique sounds. Originality/value: This study highlights musical instruments as an unusual application of AM. It highlights the potential of AM to create entirely new sounds, which could create a whole new class of musical instruments.