A New Keyboard-Based, Sensor-Augmented Instrument For Live Performance

In an attempt to utilize the expert pianist's technique and spare bandwidth, a new keyboard-based instrument augmented by sensors suggested by the examination of existing acoustic instruments is introduced. The complete instrument includes a keyboard, various pedals and knee levers, several bowing controllers, and breath and embouchure sensors connected to an Arduino microcontroller that sends sensor data to a laptop running Max/MSP, where custom software maps the data to synthesis algorithms. The audio is output to a digital amplifier powering a transducer mounted on a resonator box to which several of the sensors are attached. Careful sensor selection and mapping help to facilitate performance mode.