Pronunciation: [mˈa͡ɪəfˌə͡ʊn] (IPA) 
The word "myophone" is spelled with the following IPA phonetic transcription: /maɪəfoʊn/. The first syllable "my-" is pronounced like "my" in "mythical", with a long "i" sound. The second syllable "-o-" is pronounced like "oh" in "no". The final syllable "-phone" is pronounced like "phone" in "telephone", with a long "o" sound. In summary, "myophone" is a word pronounced as my-oh-phone, with the stress on the second syllable.
The term "myophone" refers to a type of electronic musical instrument that produces sound by capturing and amplifying vibrations from the player's body. Derived from the Greek words "myo" meaning muscle, and "phone" meaning sound, the "myophone" essentially relies on the individual's ability to manipulate and transfer muscular vibrations into audible tones.
Modeled after the concept of contact microphones, the myophone typically consists of a small sensor or transducer that is attached to a part of the body, such as the throat, chest, or abdomen. This sensor converts the physical vibrations generated by the muscles into electrical signals, which are subsequently amplified and translated into sound by the instrument.
Myophones are commonly used in experimental music, avant-garde compositions, and sound art, offering a unique way for performers to engage with their own bodies as instruments. They allow for the exploration of unconventional sounds and often encourage a more intimate connection between the musician and their instrument.
The versatility of the myophone makes it suitable for a variety of playing techniques, such as tapping, bowing, or simply manipulating the muscles to produce different tones. It opens up new possibilities in musical expression by expanding the range of instrumental sound sources beyond traditional instruments.
Overall, the myophone represents an innovative fusion of technology and the human body, offering musicians the means to create distinctive, captivating sounds and forge a deeper connection with their music through direct physical interaction.
An instrument to enable one to hear the murmur of muscular contractions.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "myophone" is derived from two Greek roots: "myo" meaning "muscle" and "phone" meaning "sound" or "voice". Combining the two roots, "myo" and "phone", forms the word "myophone", which refers to a musical instrument that is played by the muscles or voice.
