String Oscillators

After my initial research into Russolos's noise machines I thought I would experiment with the basic principle behind all string instruments, namely: a string, something to oscillate the string and a resonating body to amplify the sound. I got hold of some sweet tins and paints pot, putting a hole in the center of the bottom of the tin and threading the string through it. The string is then put under tension with a metal band/neck.

I started using bass guitar strings with the intention of making a low end drone generated by a fan with the blades replaced by parcel string. The resultant sound is quite interesting although I am not entirely sure what parts of the device are responsible for what. A heterodyning tone is produced, different frequencies gently shifting as the device is in operation (Could be caused by the irregularities of the parcel string, it wearing down, subtle changes in the shape of the devices as it is quite flexible?). I also put crocodile clips on the string that change the tone, and in certain places causes a distorted sound or in contact with the tin produces a buzzing noise.

In their current form they are not really loud enough although the sound has this quality of filling a space as background hum, like fans in computers. The noise produced by computers is not loud but as soon as they are switched off you really notice it, particularly if they are a few in room. Maybe this is a quality I can explore, a more subtle, ambient irritant that you are only partly aware of.

I could make them louder by simply making them bigger, though material issues start to arise. Maybe a resonator the size of a bass drum? Why does volume matter anyway? Does my work need to be loud to have noise qualities? I think it is an issue of scale. In visual terms a 1 inch turquoise square has a different effect than a 12 foot turquoise square. It is about a physical experience of sound, over a certain threshold the whole body becomes an ear. It becomes immersive, saturates the senses and becomes confrontational. Can a similar experience be achieved with quite sounds? Proximity?