This video captures a presentation by Dr. John Chowning at Knobcon 2019 on The History of FM Synthesis.

Dr. Chowning is Professor of Music Emeritus at Stanford University’s Center for Computer Research in Music and Acoustics (CCRMA). In the late 60’s and early 70’s, he developed the digital implementation of frequency modulation synthesis. Later, he worked with Yamaha to help them develop practical implementations for FM synthesis in instruments like the Yamaha DX7.

Dr. Chowning’s lecture at Knobcon 2019 delves into the history of FM synthesis and a detailed discussion of how it works.

Video via Nick Peck of Under the Big Tree, who notes, “My apologies for the quality of the camera work – it was hand held for two hours. But I hope that the quality of the content transcends the quality of the recording.”