Laser Harp

The laser harp is a musical instrument that was created and developed by Bernard Szajner in 1981. http://laserharp.manuel-schulz.com/print.php?type=A&item_id=5 This instrument uses lasers or direct beams of light in conjunction with a synthesizer to produce audio tones when the beam of light is interrupted. The interruption sends a signal that determines the audible sound. By doing this, artists such as Jean-Michel Jarre, the first to play Szahjner's laser harp, can provide music by manipulating the beams. http://www.stephenhobley.com/blog/laser-harp-2009/

There are two variation of the laser harp. One is a framed harp. This indicates that the laser beams are framed inside a closed structure. The other style commonly seen is an infinite beam version. This is generally seen as a floor model harp that directs the laser beams into the sky without a top or ceiling to the instrument. http://www.mountainglenharps.com/laser_harps.htm If you wish to own one of these instruments, it is unlikely you'll be able to purchase a laser harp from a traditional music store. There are individuals with the knowledge and skill that build laser harps. Companies such as Mountain Glen Harps specializes in the custom creation and design of laser harps. http://www.mountainglenharps.com/laser_harps.htm For the adventurous musician, you can also attempt to build your own laser harp. This will require a bit of knowledge in musical technology, as a key component of the harp is the  MIDI data or Musical Instrument Digital Interface, which allows the beam activity to be translated into audio sounds. http://www.scienceforcitizens.net/project/8/