Notating Experiences: A New System for Visual Documentation in Instrument Design

In the community of Digital Musical Instruments (DMIs), documentation surrounding iterative interactions and the creation of mappings is largely absent from DMI projects beyond the recording of a performance or subsequent evaluation with a performer. This is because the performance or interactive experience with the instrument is often viewed as the end point for a DMI project, and the description of a mapping or open-sourcing of software considered the 'score'. This paper outlines the creation of a visual notation based on unique interactions with the AirSticks, a gestural musical instrument. These notations expand on the concept of descriptive notation, creating a form of retrospective score and record-keeping for instrument designers. By capturing the intimate experiences and musical collaborations that contribute to the iterative design of the instrument, it is concluded the notation system provides an avenue for critical analysis that will aid the further development of DMIs.