The Gesture-Controller Exploration is a study of innovative musical instrument / controllers that investigates the relationship between movement, physical space and musical performance. The most recent incarnation, the GCe3, combines a musical software suite built in Max/Msp with an intuitive physical form to create a rich musical experience. Dipping, swinging, swaying, tilting, and turning the The Gesture-Controller sends signals to the computer running the audio software, informing its sound-making functions. This allows for a more satisfying performance, leveraging the power of the computer and helping the electronic musician to use physical means to create and manipulate digital electronic sounds in new and interesting ways.
Purpose
Standard musical controllers / instruments rely heavily on existing thought about music and space. The M-Audio Oxygen series, Novation, and Roland controllers all take advantage of the users prior understanding of keyboard layout and performance. Akai's MPC, Monome's 40h, and the Korg Pad Kontrol focus on a grid of button pads. While many manufacturers have added somewhat innovative expression tools (Roland's D-beam and Korg's Kaos pad) the core instrument functionality continues to focus mainly on these pre-existing understanding of how a musical instrument is supposed to act and rehashing instruments that already exist.
The limitation of the tools can limit creativity as well. With the addition of new tools, performers can express themselves in new ways. these controllers are the first step in my exploration of alternative instruments. No longer shackled to a standard keyboard, but free to really perform, the musician will hopefully bring new life and heart to the music.
gestureSoft Software
The gestureSoft Software which controls all of the music-making functionality of the gestureController was built in Max/Msp. It has several functions that can be chosen and controlled by the controller without the user ever having to touch the computer.
These include:
- Random Note Generator
- Synthesizer
- Volume, Effect, and Mute Control
- Sampler with jogging, looping, and reverse effects
- Theremin
- Recordable Looper
Video
Gestural Synthesizer Application
Concept Art
Coming Soon
Code
Coming Soon
