Ear Worms 009 - The Hammond Novachord, Perchance to Dream, and Maya the Cat Girl

Introduction

Introduction

Welcome Back to Ear Worms

Hello folks and welcome back to Earworms. I'm your host, Dr. Lawrence W. Moore. This week, we're diving into the fascinating world of the Hammond Novachord, a unique instrument that boasts a plethora of sounds and is regarded as the first commercially released polyphonic synthesizer.

What to Expect

In this episode, we’ll be looking at:

• The history and functionalities of the Hammond Novachord.
• Its use in Hollywood productions.
• Specifically, its haunting soundtracks in "The Twilight Zone," particularly in the episode "Perchance to Dream."
• The character Maya the Cat Girl, portrayed in this episode.

The Hammond Novachord: An Overview

Historical Context

Invented in 1938 and released in 1939, the Hammond Novachord was a revolutionary polyphonic synthesizer. Unfortunately, production was halted in 1942 due to World War II. Nonetheless, its influence on the world of music is undeniable.

Features

• 12 Oscillators
• Capable of 72-note polyphony
• Vacuum tube oscillators
• Subtractive synthesis with envelope controls and filtering
• Often described as having a stringy and woodwind character

Aesthetics and Technical Details

The Novachord looks quite like a piano with multiple pedals, including volume control, sustain, and another yet-to-be-determined function. It was more designed for the pianist rather than the organist, differing in construction and functionality from the Hammond Organ.

Usage and Legacy

Despite its lack of commercial success, the Novachord found utility in Hollywood. It was used in 1,069 units and discontinued after about three years. Its advanced features made it an early model for modern synthesizers, influencing many future developments in electronic music.

Sound Demonstrations

We had the opportunity to hear the Novachord in various musical contexts:

• Simple demo showing its versatility.
• A performance by Bert van den Brink playing "We'll Meet Again," showcasing its application in melodic compositions.
• An excerpt from the "Outer Limits" episode "The Duplicate Man," demonstrating its atmospheric capabilities.

The Twilight Zone: Perchance to Dream

Introducing the Episode

"Perchance to Dream" is the 9th episode of the first season of "The Twilight Zone." The episode revolves around Ed Hall, a man who hasn't slept for 87 hours due to terrifying dreams involving Maya the Cat Girl at an amusement park.

Main Characters

• Ed Hall: The troubled protagonist, portrayed by Richard Conte.
• Maya the Cat Girl: Portrayed by Suzanne Lloyd, who becomes the focus of Hall's terrifying dreams.
• Doctor: The psychiatrist Hall consults, trying to resolve his insomnia and anxiety.

Plot Summary

1. Initial Involvement: Ed Hall visits a psychiatrist, recalling his sleepless nights and bizarre dreams.
2. First Dream Sequence: Hall encounters Maya in a frightening amusement park. The Novachord's eerie music intensifies the surreal atmosphere.
3. Second Dream Sequence: Another terrifying dream prompts Hall’s panic and reinforces his fear of falling asleep.
4. Final Showdown: Hall's reality and dreams blur as he confuses the psychiatrist’s secretary with Maya, leading him to a fatal leap from a window.

Keywords

• Hammond Novachord
• Polyphonic Synthesizer
• Subtractive Synthesis
• Twilight Zone
• Perchance to Dream
• Maya the Cat Girl
• Hollywood Soundtracks
• Electronic Music
• World War II

FAQ

What is the Hammond Novachord?

The Hammond Novachord, invented in 1938 and released in 1939, is considered the first commercially released polyphonic synthesizer. It features 12 oscillators, is capable of 72-note polyphony, employs vacuum tube oscillators, and uses subtractive synthesis with envelope controls and filtering.

When was the Hammond Novachord discontinued?

The Hammond Novachord was discontinued in 1942, largely due to resource allocation for World War II and a lack of commercial success.

How was the Hammond Novachord used in Hollywood?

The Novachord found unique use in Hollywood, contributing to the eerie atmospheres of various films and TV shows, notably "The Twilight Zone" and "The Outer Limits."

Who portrayed Maya the Cat Girl in "The Twilight Zone"?

Maya the Cat Girl was portrayed by Suzanne Lloyd in the episode "Perchance to Dream."

What is the primary storyline of "Perchance to Dream"?

The episode follows Ed Hall, who struggles with terrifying dreams that prevent him from sleeping. These dreams feature Maya the Cat Girl and a nightmarish amusement park. Hall's desperation leads him to visit a psychiatrist, but the lines between reality and dream blur leading to a tragic end.