Project Title:

Digital Instrument

Performed:

UCLA Rumble 2017

This 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. By the second prototype, it gained the ability to respond to the flow of performance by transforming to fit the energy of the show. It also optimizes versatility through an easily accessible and fully programmable mixing board on the base section of the instrument. All woodwork, electrical wiring, and programming was ground-up.

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.