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You’re The Conductor: A Realistic Interactive Conducting System for Children

Type: journal article

Authors: Eric Lee, Teresa Marrin Nakra, Jan Borchers

Abstract
This paper describes the first system designed to allow children to conduct an audio and video recording of an orchestra. No prior music experience is required to control the orchestra, and the system uses an advanced algorithm to time stretch the audio in real-time at high quality and without altering the pitch. We will discuss the requirements and challenges of designing an interface to target our particular user group (children), followed by some system implementation details. An overview of the algorithm used for audio time stretching will also be presented. We are currently using this technology to study and compare professional and non-professional conducting behavior, and its implications when designing new interfaces for multimedia. You’re the Conductor is currently a successful exhibit at the Children’s Museum in Boston, USA.

Associated tags
metadata ▸ material ▸ You're the conductor
metadata ▸ contribution ▸ Evaluation
metadata ▸ year ▸ 2004
technological dimension ▸ applications ▸ Desktop
technological dimension ▸ input technologies ▸ Camera
technological dimension ▸ input technologies ▸ Tangibles, wearables
technological dimension ▸ system outputs ▸ Audio
technological dimension ▸ system outputs ▸ Video
musical dimension ▸ activities ▸ Performing
pedagogical dimension ▸ learning theories ▸ Cognitivism
pedagogical dimension ▸ users ▸ Pre-school, primary
pedagogical dimension ▸ venues ▸ Lab