ASTRA Project

GÉANT and ASTRA - recreating ancient instruments

The Challenge

For centuries, the Epigonion and the Barbiton have been confined to history books, unheard since their heyday in Ancient Greece. The ASTRA (Ancient instruments Sound/Timbre Reconstruction Application) project aims to reconstruct the sound or timbre of ancient instruments that no longer exist. The challenge was to recreate the sounds using highly data intensive physical modelling programs.

The Solution

Using the high-speed GÉANT and EUMEDCONNECT networks and advanced computer modelling technology, researchers were able to create models of 'lost' instruments based on archaeological data, such as fragments from excavations, written descriptions and pictures.

Key Benefits

ASTRA has brought to life ancient musical instruments such as the Epigonion and Barbiton to produce a fascinating insight into the past, highlighting the vital role of research networking in collaborative research.

"The success of the ASTRA project is testament to how e-Infrastructure can bring researchers and academics from across a multitude of disciplines together with artists, facilitating their creative collaboration on a global level. In addition, it provides an innovative use for research data, making this important work accessible to the general public."

Dr La Rocca, Co-ordinator of ASTRA gridification