The Ableton Push prototype, a groundbreaking instrument in electronic music, has found a permanent home at Sydney's Powerhouse Museum. This prototype, crafted from LEGO by Jesse Terry, is now recognized alongside over half a million other significant objects in the museum's collection. Terry, who joined Ableton in 2005 and became the company's head of hardware, designed the Push to offer a level of tactile, expressive control that hadn't been seen before in electronic music production. The modular LEGO design allowed for flexible user testing, enabling Terry and his team to adjust the layout and ergonomics as the design evolved. The Push quickly gained popularity among a diverse range of artists, from Flying Lotus and Timbaland to Pete Townshend and Snoop Dogg, showcasing its versatility across genres and approaches. The Powerhouse Museum's acquisition of the Push prototype is a testament to the importance of electronic music in the arts, design, science, and technology narrative. This addition highlights the museum's commitment to preserving and showcasing innovative instruments that have shaped modern music. The museum's website, powerhouse.com.au, provides information on planning a visit and exploring the diverse collection. The acquisition of the Ableton Push prototype is a significant moment for the museum and a celebration of the enduring impact of electronic music on the creative landscape.
