Marin Mersenne

Marin Mersenne, a 17th century scientist, was commonly referred to as the father of acoustics and is remembered for his association with the concept of Mersenne Primes (prime numbers). His work in acoustics is still applicable today, particularly within the physical laws describing the relationships between frequency and the tension, weight, and length of strings as observed in musical string instruments. Mersenne's academic journey began in Le Mans leading him to be ordained a Catholic Priest in 1613. During his lifetime, he engaged with other notable contemporaries of his era including the likes of Descartes, Pascal and Galileo. He waxed a bit philosophical in the following quote about music: "Music is made particularly and principally to charm the spirit and the ear, and to enable us to pass our lives with a little sweetness amidst all the bitterness that we encounter here."