Sonic Gestures Applied to a Percussive Dialogue in TanGram Using Wii Remotes

Abstract

Abstract. TanGram, is an original music score composed by Carlos D. Perales for Percussion Quartet and Nintendo Wii Remotes used as a wireless interface for Live Electronics. This paper examines how this composition explores exiting research in interaction and communication between instruments and digital sound processing discourse to produce a unique music mixed-media score, to explore the sonic possibilities of a multi-timbrical instrument with the integration of the visual gestures of an accessible device using processes of real-time gestural mimesis.Keywords: Music, Electroacoustic, Live Electronics, Percussion. Real Time Discourse Based on Digital Sound Processes Designing BehaviourThe concept of real time processes has been extensively explored and discussed in composition and improvisation environments [1]. However the integration of wearable devices on percussion performers as an extension of them, especially in percussion pieces, opened a scope for another twist, as methodologies and research from the field of Acousmatic Music and performance explorations were introduced. To explain the integration between the wireless interface and the traditional use of mallets in percussion instruments, we start with the music score, which is designed to precise both uses.Each percussionist has attached to his arm the Wii remote control in order to achieve a new parameter in movements and gestures (Fig. 1). Because the application runs as an organic sequence of events (DSP processes) and determines a collaborative distribution for the performers, a standalone Max MSP patch [2] was designed as a start point in the managing of processes. In order to connect the Wii dates with Max MSP a specific library object, named aka.wiiremote [3] have been used. This object allows a stable data transfer via Bluetooth. Each percussionist activate/deactivate their own events list using the 'A' button on Wii remote control.

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“…In this sense, we can mention some game platforms such as Nintendo Wii and the games Wii Sport or Wii Balance Board, that revolutionized the gaming world by requiring users to physically exercise while playing or by converting them into personal trainers. Also, the Wii remote controller has been used by the research community to develop other applications and to investigate novel human-computer interactions [ 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 ]. A more recent example is Kinect, a range-based sensor from which many applications in the areas of entertainment and edutainment have been developed [ 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 ].…”