Project Title:
Digital InstrumentPerformed:
UCLA Rumble 2017This instrument was conceived as a device to increase interaction between a keyboardist and his audience by bringing the operation of the instrument to the vertical plane. It optimizes versatility through an easily accessible and fully programmable mixing board on the base section of the instrument.
24 obstacle avoidance sensors line the interior and exterior of each arm and act as "keys" for playing assigned notes within a range. When closed, only the exterior sensors will work, for a more subtle performance. During high energy or solo performance, the device opens to include a more complex note matrix for faster playing. Opening also activates an array of LEDs which pulse with each note played. Hue, speed, and brightness of the lights are controlled through potentiometers on mixing panel.
The instrument was conceived as part of a digitally augmented band, with each instrument acting as a play on the traditional components of a five-person band. The song we chose to perform as a represtation of the instrument’s abilities is Makeba by Jain.