A remarkable journey into the past has been undertaken by Levi McClain, who uncovered blueprints for an ancient device capable of composing church music. This contraption, known as the arca musarithmica, originates from the works of Athanasius Kircher, a polymath whose studies spanned multiple disciplines, including music theory. Though it may not align with our contemporary understanding of computers, Levi draws intriguing parallels between this historical tool and mechanical calculators like slide rules. Intrigued by its rarity and potential, Levi embarked on constructing his own version using the original plans and publicly accessible data.

The arca musarithmica comprises a collection of wooden tablets inscribed with instructions designed to guide even those untrained in music to compose melodies. Despite its obscurity, Kircher's invention aimed to democratize musical creation through systematic processes. As Kircher described, this mechanism enabled anyone, regardless of their musical aptitude, to generate compositions tailored to specific styles. Levi’s endeavor brings this forgotten technology back to life, offering modern audiences a glimpse into early computational thinking applied to art.

Levi meticulously followed the blueprints outlined in Kircher’s books while incorporating supplementary resources available online. The resulting replica showcases how intricate algorithms could be embedded within physical objects centuries ago. Although many details of the underlying musical principles remain elusive due to their complexity, the essence lies in its innovative approach to problem-solving via tangible steps.

In today's digital age, recreating such analog marvels serves as both a nostalgic reminder and an educational tool about humanity's ingenuity throughout history. For those curious enough, virtual replicas exist online allowing experimentation without requiring carpentry skills. Whether considered true computing devices or mere precursors, these creations highlight the timeless interplay between creativity and logic.

Through Levi's efforts, we gain renewed appreciation for historical innovations that challenge conventional definitions of technology. By bridging gaps between eras, he demonstrates how concepts once thought obsolete continue to inspire contemporary thinkers. Thus, whether viewed through lenses of artistry or engineering, the legacy of Athanasius Kircher endures through projects like this one.