Electronic music's most influential instrument turns 60

The Moog Synthesizer. It was one of the pioneering modular voltage-controlled oscillators and amplifiers, developed by Robert Moog.

Robert Moog's synthesizers were the first to fully empower people to craft and shape electronic music. His original prototype featured two voltage-controlled oscillators and a voltage-controlled amplifier. The initial oscillator enabled users to alter the pitch of a generated sound via the applied voltage, which could then be modified by the second oscillator to produce effects like tremolo.

This is the 60th anniversary of the first Moog Synthesizer. At that time, electronic sound synthesizers already existed, but they were very large – the size of entire rooms. Moog, who was a fan of the theremin – the electronic instrument created in the 1920s that could be played without touching it – experimented with adding amplifiers to the synthesizer's oscillators to make a smaller and more portable version of the machine.

In addition to being the first portable modular synth, it was also the first affordable one, relatively speaking. As an initial point, the original Moog Synthesizer cost $10,000 in 1964. When inflation is taken into account, this amounts to around $100,000 (€90,000) in today's equivalent. While it was not affordable in any strict sense, it was significantly less expensive than its modern-day competitors, which cost millions of dollars.

The first client was British-American composer Eric Siday, who had commissioned Moog to create an electronic musical instrument and requested that a keyboard be incorporated into the machine. Other composers who were interested in electronic music similarly continued to contract Moog and requested the addition of filter features, resulting in innovative new sounds such as the "wah-wah" effect.

Scores of musicians rushed to Moog's innovative synthesizers, and it didn't take long before the first impressive piece of music was created. One of the initial pioneers to work with the Moog Synthesizer was Paul Beaver, who collaborated with Mort Garson to produce the album “The Zodiac: Cosmic Sounds”, which has since become an influential work that has galvanized numerous experimental musicians. Later, in 1968, the album “Switched-On Bach” saw Wendy Carlos reinterpret Bach's compositions, earning both commercial and critical acclaim. It received three Grammy Awards and holds the distinction of being the first classical album to achieve platinum certification.

-One example of the Moog's innovative impact is evident in the iconic song 'Strange Days', from The Doors' 1967 album of the same name. Beaver brought his synthesizer expertise and modulated Jim Morrison's lead vocals to create an otherworldly atmosphere in the track. It wasn't long before the Moog became a sensation, with The Beatles incorporating it into their album 'Abbey Road'. Other early adopters included The Monkees, The Grateful Dead, The Rolling Stones, and jazz musicians such as Herbie Hancock and Sun Ra.

Today, electronic music is everywhere, and synthesizers are manufactured by an immeasurably large number of companies, as well as being simulated through digital music production software. But that didn't mean Moog became complacent.

In 1970, Moog launched a new synthesizer, the Minimoog. This more portable version of the original synthesizer achieved great success. Despite Moog estimating that it would only sell around 100 units to specialized musicians, it sold in the thousands over a decade and paved the way for other products such as the Vocoder, the Micromoog, Multimoog, and the Polymoog. These helped make Moog a well-known brand in the music industry and it featured prominently on progressive rock albums by Yes; Tangerine Dream; and Emerson, Lake & Palmer. Probably its most successful commercial hit in the 70s was Donna Summer’s 'I Feel Love', nearly entirely produced on the Moog.

As the competition for Moog's synthesizers increased in the early 80s, his company encountered financial challenges. Digital synthesizers from companies such as Yamaha surpassed Moog's products, leading to bankruptcy in 1987. However, by 2002, Moog's synthesizers elicited a sense of nostalgia, prompting Moog to reintroduce a new range of synthesizers. Moog passed away in 2005 at the age of 71, but his company remains active and continues to manufacture synthesizers, including the Spectravox, Labyrinth, and Muse models, which were released this year.

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15 low-maintenance hairstyles for a 60-year-old woman with fine hair

As people age, their hair can become thinner and more delicate with age, but that doesn't mean they can't still have stylish and easy-to-maintain hairstyles. Maintaining simplicity is often key when it comes to hairstyles for 60-year-old women with fine hair. So, which are among the top low-maintenance hairstyles for a 60-year-old woman with fine hair?

The notion that "age is just a number" still holds true. After spending more than six decades figuring out which hairstyles work well with your features, you may find yourself wanting a change. There are times when you want to accentuate certain aspects, and other times you may prefer to minimize certain details.

Ultimately, you'll look great with a hairstyle and color that you feel comfortable with, but it doesn't have to be the same one you've always worn. So, don't hesitate to try some versatile senior hairstyles for thinning hair for a low-maintenance and revitalizing change.

Look for a stylist who specializes in low-maintenance hairstyles for fine hair to find the perfect look that suits your needs and preferences.

Every woman's hair is a crowning glory; it's quite evident why. Hair can reflect one's personality, style, and even their mood. Here is a list of low-maintenance hairstyles for a 60-year-old woman with fine hair that showcases the beauty of who she is:

1. Chin-length cut with angular bangs styled to sweep across the forehead.

This easy-to-style bob haircut conveys a sense of vitality while still being suitable for women over 60, presenting a polished appearance that's effortless to maintain. The layered texture adds a dynamic movement, and the full fringe elegantly frames the face.

2. Very short hair with loose, wavy locks.

Those with naturally curly hair in good condition may want to consider a short hairstyle that showcases their loose, wavy curls.

Fine, curly hair can benefit from a short style, which not only adds volume and fullness but also provides a sense of relaxation during warm weather, as it reduces heat-related hair discomfort. It is a highly recommended haircut for individuals with very thin hair over 60, due to its low-maintenance requirements.

5. Try a messy, undone look by applying a small amount of texture spray to damp bangs and then scrunching them to enhance their natural texture.

A long, textured fringe is effortless to style and will fall gently back. This cut is well-suited for individuals with square face shapes as it frames the face subtly rather than accentuating features. This hairstyle also gives off a youthful appearance as it flows across the face.

4. Jagged bob

A jagged bob is a low-maintenance haircut that features textured layers. Let your hairstylist create big curls on textured hair for an even more striking appearance. You can also achieve this look by using a flat iron at home to create beach waves.

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Curls in shoulder-length hair are ideal, they weigh them down and prevent frizzing. Styling it with a side part creates dimension, while the front layers frame the face beautifully and visually lengthen it.

Feel free to showcase your lively personality with this captivating curly hairstyle in rich, caramel-inspired hues.

6. Pixie hairstyle

Kris Jenner is perhaps more famous for her daughters' hairstyles, but she has a signature look of her own. Her distinctive short hair flatters her thanks to carefully textured layers and elegantly curved sideburns that add dimension and highlight her cheekbones.

Get a fashion-forward shaggy bob haircut that adds volume and texture to thinning hair, drawing attention away from thinning areas and creating a trendy, relaxed appearance.

Do you have thin hair with little texture? A short haircut, called a choppy bob, can easily fix this problem, giving your hair a fun texture. It also often looks great with a lighter blonde color and deeper roots that help hide greys and brighten up your face.

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When paired with glasses, a short bob hairstyle presents a refined and professional appearance. Have your hairstylist cut a short, straightforward bob to achieve this style. This particular hairstyle accentuates your cheekbones and provides a comfortable, fashionable look.

9. Long and wavy

Despite many women adopting shorter hairstyles as they age, Madonna defies this trend with her long, youthful locks. If you have medium to thick hair, emulate the style of the Queen of Pop by using a 1-1/2-inch curling wand and then gently separating the curls with your fingers. This effortless look is chic and sophisticated.

10. Afro hairstyle

For individuals with natural, textured hair, having an afro can be a very stylish choice and make your hair care routine more straightforward. You don't require specialized braiding skills to achieve this look; you can style your hair immediately after washing.

11. A trendy hairstyle with a fringe that extends to the sides of the face.

A bob with angled bangs is a great hairstyle for those with fine hair. This style adds volume and cleverly conceals forehead lines, giving you a youthful and refined appearance. Try side-swept bangs for a more romantic appearance and find confidence when you walk.

12. Pixie with Longer Side Bangs (also known as a Fringe Pixie or Pixie Cut with Bangs) is a variation of the traditional pixie cut style that features longer bangs framing the face. This hairstyle can add volume, texture, and a touch of sophistication to a classic pixie cut. The longer sides and bangs create a softer, more feminine appearance compared to the traditional pixie cut with a blunt, straight line. This style can be customized to suit a variety of face shapes and can be styled in different ways to suit individual preferences.

A pixie cut with long side bangs can help soften facial features and create a chic and youthful appearance for women over sixty. It demands minimal upkeep and adds a touch of sophistication.

For an extra boost at the top, your stylist can guide you on a blow-drying technique to add volume to the crown. This hairstyle is one of the top choices for women with fine or thin hair aged 60 and above in present-day market trends.

13. Short feathery wedge

A short, angled haircut is another name for a graduated bob. This style features a 45-degree layering around the edges, resulting in a curved line beneath the hair. Feathered layers at the front of the head add volume, blending the entire hairstyle together.

This style is a great, hassle-free choice for individuals with short, fine hair. It can be made ready with a round brush and styled within a time frame of under 15 minutes.

14. Curtains with a youthful appearance that frame the forehead in bangs.

Long curtain bangs are a fashionable way to test-drive bangs without making a full dedication. This style is perfect for a grandmother who wishes to explore bangs but isn't willing to take the full plunge.

Ask your hairstylist for longer curtain bangs that frame your face to achieve this style. These hairstyles make an older woman look younger and add a burst of youth to your overall appearance.

15. Soft, choppy layers

For those looking for a simple, stylish haircut, soft, layered cuts are an ideal choice. To achieve this look, layering is key. The result can then be enhanced by using a blow dryer with a round brush, which adds volume and bounce to limp hair.

This new hairstyle will enable you to smoothly transition from your current style to your freshly acquired look. Moreover, it retains a sense of elegance and femininity.

Final word

Having the right hairstyle can significantly elevate your self-confidence. Bear in mind that a skilled hairstylist can provide valuable guidance and help you pick a suitable hair length for a 60-year-old woman. Therefore, try the following low-maintenance hairstyles for a 60-year-old woman with fine hair, as one of them is bound to make you feel confident and beautiful.

A Kenyan online news outlet, .co.ke, shared an article featuring popular hairstyles for men with type 3 curly hair. Type 3 curly hair provides a variety of styling options, offering individuals the opportunity to showcase their personal style.

Regardless of your personal style, whether adventurous, classic, or fashion-forward, Type 3 curly hair cuts will enable you to deviate from conventional beauty standards and adopt a bolder appearance.

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Joshua Zirkzee embarrasses Arsenal star as Manchester United win FA Cup clash

• Joshua Zirkzee was one of the key players for Manchester United as the defending champions eliminated Arsenal from the FA Cup
• Arsenal was unable to overcome a 10-man Manchester United after Diogo Dalot was dismissed, resulting in the match going into extra playoff shootouts.
• Zirkzee produced a stunning skill in normal time, leaving Arsenal's William Saliba behind on the Emirates Stadium pitch

Joshua Zirkzee scored the decisive penalty as Manchester United knocked Arsenal out of the Emirates FA Cup in stunning fashion.

The current titleholders needed post-match penalties to defeat Gunners at Emirates Stadium, despite playing a large portion of the game with only 10 men.

Diogo Dalot was given his marching orders shortly after the match took the lead after a pace-setting run from Alejandro Garnacho, following Bruno Fernandes' goal for Ruben Amorim's team.

This season, Altay Bayındır has stood out as a hero for his team, making impressive stops and plays that have given them crucial points.

Gabriel Magalhaes equalised soon after Arsenal were given a man advantage.

Manchester United's reserve goalkeeper, Altay Bayındır, was the match's outstanding performer. The Turkish goalkeeper successfully blocked Kai Havertz's shot in the penalty shootout, becoming a star for the second time, having previously thwarted Martin Odegaard's attempt in regular time.

Joshua Zirkzee appears to drop Laurent Saliba from the rebound

Earlier in the game, hawk-eyed fans spotted what Zirkzee did to William Saliba. He nutmegged the Arsenal defender twice, leaving him sliding backwards on the ground.

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"Zirkzee absolutely cooked Saliba."

@ProfessorHamza said,

Saliba was compared to Van Dijk. He was told he was dirty.

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Heaping praise in the post-game interview, Amorim commended both Bayindir and Zirkzee

"He believes the penalty save was crucial as it gave his team more energy and confidence to keep pressing, especially when they were down to 10 men. With a team like Arsenal already dominating possession, having an 11th man could have made it extremely difficult to stay in the game. A 10-9 disadvantage, as they were facing, is immense pressure, making it even more vital to earn a draw," Man United's website reported.

The former Sporting Lisbon manager also had kind words for Zirkzee, who was harshly substituted against Newcastle 13 days ago after just 33 minutes.

Joshua was experiencing some difficulties a couple of weeks ago with the fans' support. However, now every time he steps onto the field, he's met with encouragement from the fans. And guess what, he even scored the decisive penalty. Life has its ups and downs. One has to stay grounded, put in the effort every day, and not just for oneself but for the team as well.

Kenyan International Succeeds in the FA Cup Competition

The FA Cup has also highlighted the contribution of Kenyan international Vincent Harper. Harper scored one goal and set up another to lead Exeter City into the fourth round of the competition, a feat the team had not achieved in 44 years.

Harper has not yet made his debut with the Harambee Stars, but the team's former coach, Engin Firat, had selected him for the international friendly against Russia in 2023.

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Talk about vintage! Scientists extract DNA from world's oldest cheese

A high-quality, aged cheddar is a fundamental component found on any respectable cheese platter.

While most types are typically aged for about 12 months, this is far surpassed by the world's oldest cheese, which has a history dating back 3,600 years.

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Researchers have extracted DNA from the cheese, uncovering its essential components.

Their analysis indicates that the ancient cheese was produced from kefir - a popular fermented milk beverage that is highly beneficial for gut health.

About 20 years ago, a team of archaeologists found strange white substances applied to the heads and necks of several mummies buried in the Xiaohe cemetery in the Tarim Basin of Northwestern China.

These mummies were approximately 3,300 to 3,600 years old, dating back to the Bronze Age.

At that point, researchers believed that these substances might be a type of fermented dairy product, but they were unable to pinpoint precisely which type.

Now, employing cutting-edge DNA analysis, researchers have finally unraveled the mystery.

They determined the presence of cow and goat DNA in the cheese samples, affirming that the white substances are indeed kefir cheese.

The samples from three different tombs contained species of bacteria and fungi, including Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens and Pichia kudriavzevii, both commonly found in present-day kefir grains.

Kefir grains are collections of microorganisms comprising various species of probiotic bacteria and yeast, which ferment milk to produce kefir cheese.

In addition to enhancing the beneficial bacteria in our stomachs, kefir is believed to have several other health benefits, including supporting bone health, regulating blood sugar levels, and promoting heart health.

"It is the oldest known cheese sample ever discovered globally," Professor Qiaomei Fu, head of the ancient DNA lab at the Chinese Academy Sciences, said.

Items such as cheese are particularly hard to preserve for thousands of years, making this find extremely rare and valuable.

Examining ancient cheese in depth can help us gain insights into the eating habits and ways of life of our forebears.

Decoding the genetic sequences of the bacteria in the ancient kefir cheese allowed the researchers the ability to follow the evolution of probiotic bacteria over the past 3500 years.

Their results contradict the widespread assumption that kefir originated solely in the North Caucasus mountain region of Russia.

They propose that the kefir culture has been preserved in the Xinjiang region of northwestern China since the Bronze Age.

The study also showed that, in comparison to ancient kefir bacteria, modern varieties are more likely to avoid triggering an immune response in the human intestine – making it easier to digest.

"This study represents a historic opportunity to witness firsthand how a bacterium developed over the last 3,000 years," Professor Fu explained.

'By investigating dairy products, we've gained a more precise understanding of ancient human life and their interactions with the environment.'

Today, kefir products include beverages, yogurts and ice creams.

The study's outcome was published in the scientific journal Cell.

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Low-budget simple two storey house designs that will inspire you

One of the greatest hurdles homeowners encounter is discovering the perfect design to model their ideal residence after. With numerous styles and floor plans to choose from, deciding on one that meets personal tastes while staying within budget can be a daunting task. Fortunately, low-budget, simple two-story house designs provide a suitable solution, combining functionality with visual appeal.

Two-story homes are a preferred choice for many homeowners, offering sufficient living space and efficient land utilization. Reasonable, low-cost designs often include open floor plans, spacious rooms, and the opportunity for beautiful views from upper levels. Nonetheless, selecting the ideal design can be overwhelming, particularly for those on a limited budget. This article presents a compilation of the most budget-friendly two-story house designs.

Affordable and Simple Two-Storey House Designs

A good two-storey house design achieves a balance between functionality and aesthetics, optimizing space while preserving comfort and a sense of natural flow throughout the home. Key elements comprise:

• A well-designed layout that optimizes navigation between different spaces.
• Plenty of natural light is provided through the thoughtful positioning of windows.
• A visually pleasing exterior that blends in well with its surroundings.

Here are some inspiring small two-storey house designs to help you visualise your ideal home.

1. Two storey cottage

This practical and straightforward house plan is one of the finest budget-friendly 2-storey house designs, especially because it effectively meets the needs of its residents. It has a satisfactory number of bedrooms to accommodate both family members and visitors. Also, the modern facade design showcases the unique character of the homeowners, with a stylish blend of various materials enhancing its appeal.

The design boasts a roomy outdoor area and a covered parking space that combines utility with a minimal footprint expansion. The parking space can be effortlessly enlarged to accommodate two cars or converted into a fully enclosed garage.

Despite its moderate size compared to modern standards, the ground floor features a combined kitchen and living area spanning around 30 square meters. This living space can be transformed from a study into a guest bedroom, thanks to the spacious bathroom with a shower stall and space for a washing machine.

The design features a boiler room, strategically positioned beneath the staircase, which facilitates optimal use of space. The staircase is crafted as a self-contained unit, consisting of a singular structure without spiral turns and a landing for improved accessibility.

On the second floor, there are three complete bedrooms that share a spacious bathroom of similar proportions to the one on the first floor. This bathroom is situated above the first-floor bathroom and furnace, facilitating service pipe distribution and allowing for a common ventilation system.

2. Two-story hillside design

This stunning, two-storey hillside house plan is carefully designed to showcase breathtaking views. The layout is optimized to provide an unobstructed panorama from both floors. The main floor features a spacious primary bedroom, serving as a serene retreat, and offering convenient access to a covered balcony, perfect for taking in the surrounding landscape.

There is a flexible space located on this level. The space advantages from generous natural illumination, thanks to the sliding glass door that connects to the outside.

Upstairs, an L-shaped kitchen flows into a spacious living area with a vaulted ceiling and adjacent breakfast nook, designed to foster interaction among visitors. Guests can seamlessly transition between indoor and outdoor spaces by opening the glass door leading to the balcony, thereby taking full advantage of the property's spectacular views.

This home design features a modern, single-story floor plan ideal for those who want a comfortable and easy-to-navigate living space. With a drive-up home, residents can park their vehicle directly in front of the main entrance, making it convenient for daily errands or visitors.

The drive-up modern house plan is intended to make a striking first impression. Characterized by large windows and a stylish exterior, this design creates a welcoming atmosphere right from the driveway. The open-format layout maximizes space, allowing for smooth movement between the living, dining, and kitchen areas.

This contemporary dwelling design is one of the most affordable modern house designs with a second floor and generous storage space options. It features double driveways at both the front and rear, with one garage accommodating two vehicles at once. Upon arrival, visitors are welcomed by a formal entryway that leads to a storage room equipped with built-in shelving at the end of the corridor.

The main living area is located on the upper floor. It receives abundant natural light thanks to the numerous glass doors and windows. The open-plan design is particularly well-suited for entertaining, especially during the warmer summer months when the glass doors can be slid open to access the spacious balcony.

The kitchen is designed with high efficiency in mind. It enables homeowners to easily prepare meals while their guests socialize, and it also features a built-in bar area.

4. Attic home design

This attic-style home design is appealing for its ingenious architectural planning methods. The exterior boasts a bark finish, although this is a matter of personal choice. The versatile design enables you to pick the construction and finishing materials that suit you best. The lower walls in the attic permit the maximum use of the roof space, consequently minimizing construction costs per square meter.

The flat surface above fully equipped with insulation works as an efficient layer to protect the living space. "There is a fireplace in the living room which creates a cozy and charming environment, especially near the dining area." The first-floor bedroom can serve as a study, a room for playing games, or a space for watching entertainment.

The open-plan outdoor space allows for pleasant evenings spent barbecuing with friends. Its dimensions can be tailored to meet specific needs without being dictated by the design parameters. It is suggested to add a canopy or trellis to protect the outdoor area from direct sunlight.

The compact garage is well-suited for most vehicles, providing protection from the weather. Nearby, a utility room is available for storing car accessories.

Located on the second floor, a short stairway leads to a small corridor giving access to the bedrooms and the bathroom. Above the technical space is a bathroom and laundry facility that uses hot water efficiently. The master bedroom is quite large and features a balcony overlooking the bay window on the first floor.

5. Simple two-storey farmhouse

This farmhouse design has an appealing exterior and a straightforward interior design. The entranceway leads into a corridor that opens up to a large living space that is connected to the kitchen. A wood-burning stove in the living space enhances the warm atmosphere.

The kitchen features a built-in eating area, which optimizes available space. A walk-in pantry and access to the covered deck can be found on this level, along with a studio suite.

The most distinctive feature of the farmhouse is the elevated vaulted loft upstairs, offering a spacious full bathroom and a walk-in closet. Three additional attic spaces are available for increased storage capacity.

Is it generally more costly to construct a two-story residence?

Constructing a two-story house typically incurs greater expenses due to factors like the necessity of a stronger foundation, the augmented need for construction materials, and the increased complexity of design and utility systems. The additional costs stem from both structural demands and the extra finishes required for two levels.

Why should you build multi-storey homes?

A two-storey house offers several advantages, including increased living space without needing a bigger lot, enhanced views and natural light, and improved separation between private and public areas. The design makes it possible to incorporate outdoor living features like balconies and decks, and its smaller footprint is suitable for urban settings.

Final word

Low-cost, compact two-storey houses offer a perfect blend of functionality and style for homeowners looking to create their ideal space without overspending. From quaint, welcoming rural homes to modern, beautiful homes in elevated settings, each design in this collection features intelligent floor plans that optimise space, natural light, and comfort. By selecting a design that suits your tastes and budget, you can turn your vision into a reality and enjoy the advantages of a well-designed home.

Kenyan news website .co.ke has also published an article on simple three-bedroom house designs that can be constructed on a limited budget. The article presents a variety of straightforward and affordable three-bedroom house plans that cater to different needs and preferences. Each plan is carefully detailed, including dimensions and layout features, which makes it simpler for prospective homeowners to envision their future living space.

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