Magical Music Technology

Mark Hildred

An overview of music technology

Music technology can be used to enable children with physical disabilities to play music and sounds. They Motion often make use of alternative controllers, that detect Sensors a range of specific movements or gestures.

In music technology there are several key components:

● Motion sensors – a sensor or switch to detect the Interface movement. ● Interface - convert the signal from the sensor into an electronic signal, probably MIDI. ● Sound generator - a box that can turn the information from the interface into a sound, for Sound Generator example a MIDI sound module or keyboard. ● Speakers - to make the sound audible.

These may be integrated into a single unit or each be a specific box connected together.

Speakers Why?Why? Access Presets

Sounds

MicMic && FXFX

The ability to amplify voices and add effects such as reverb or echo is enormously engaging. Children reluctant to vocalise will often find their voice when presented with a microphone. They can also lend additional colours to storytelling..

Soundbeam

The 'red torch' sends out clicks like a bat to detect movement. Movement is changed to musical notes and chords. You can also connect a switch box allowing the use of standard accessible switches.

The latest version (see overleaf) just needs a pair of speakers, but older versions might require additional equipment such as a sound module.

www.soundbeam.co.uk The Soundbeam 6 (left) adds a touchscreen for easier editing and access to presets.

Apollo Ensemble

PC software links switches and sensors to notes, chords and sounds. Can also trigger images and lighting.

Wide range of different input devices include dice, wireless switches and Xbox games controllers.

www.apolloensemble.co.uk Skoog

A squeezy instrument with five coloured sides, each one can trigger different sounds. Connected via USB to a computer (PC or Mac) which generates the sounds.

www.skoogmusic.com The Skoog 2.0 connects to an iPad via Bluetooth and has a rechargeable battery. The app can link to Spotify or iTunes to autotune the Skoog for playing along to your favourite tracks.

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/skoog/id987500143 Beamz

A 'laser harp' with four beams that you break to trigger sounds. Software keeps everything in time and sounding good. Includes backing tracks for complete performances.

Connects to PC, Mac or iPad.

The software is usable with eye gaze control, with variable on-screen beam width to suit different users.

There is also a switch interface opening up access for users who can’t physically break the beams.

www.the-beamz.myshopify.com MakeyMakey MakeyMakey

The MakeyMakey plugs into a USB port and can turn any conductive object into a switch or mouse action. It can be used with free software for games and music, or with the Ensemble software.

http://www.makeymakey.com Wavedrum Mini

An example of a 'mainstream' piece of technology that has great results in SEN/D settings.

Electronic drum pad with clip-on trigger and built- in sounds and speaker. Trigger turns most objects into an instrument, including wheelchair trays.

Range of interesting sounds that respond to the velocity of the hit.

Low cost, all-in-one unit.

www.korg.com/us/products/drums/wavedrum_mini/ NumarkNumark OrbitOrbit AlphasphereAlphasphere

Wireless DJ controller, sends MIDI that can be used to trigger sounds. Needs additional software on the PC or Mac to work. DJ controller with pressure sensitive rubber pads of PC configuration software can be different sizes, arranged around used to change the colours of the a sphere. Needs additional buttons. software to generate sounds.

https://www.numark.com/product/orbit http://www.alphasphere.com iPadiPad

Always use with a decent case and think about adding a bluetooth speaker to improve the sound quality.

Thumbjam A flexible musical instrument, responds to http://www.thumbjam.com touch and also to the angle and movements of the iPad/iPod. You can change instruments and musical notes.

Consider using with the ‘Improvise Approach’ which provides backing tracks and instructions for setting up.

https://www.improviseapproach.com Bloom HD

http://www.generativemusic.com/bloom.html

Beautiful visuals and relaxing music. Small movements have a big impact due to looping.

Consider using this alongside an Apple TV to project the image onto a wall to create an immersive space.

GaragebandGarageband https://www.apple.com/uk/ios/garageband/

Try Smart Instruments to provide access to guitars, strings, pianos and drums.

Use the iPad with ‘Guided Access’ to lock off areas of the screen and stop the Home button from working.