Ah...I missed this yesterday: Robert Moog dies at 71. He was an original. His impact reached far beyond the creation of a synthsizer. His inventions drove countless others to their own creations; he was a true catalyst.

His passing makes me sad for another reason. He was an example of the fantastic public education system in New York City in the 40s and 50s, as well as someone who crossed between art and science. People like him are uncommon; I fear more so now than 50 years ago. New York's public schools are in ruin, and science has become more specialized. Where are today's Moogs? I'd like to meet them.

[Update: Salon has a nicer overview of what Moog did.]