I have recently added keyboard controls to dynamically set the transposition in my Gestural Music Sequencer. I set it up like a piano keyboard, so that “Q” is the key of C, “2” is C sharp and so on. In this example I have the application set to to play a minor pentatonic scale. This makes it quite clear when the key changes. In this case I’m modulating between C and F sharp. I also started with a slower note duration, then switched to a faster one. I would not classify this as a very musical performance. This was part of a test to make sure that all of the transposition key controls were operating properly.
Transposition Controls (C to F# Modulation)
The possibilities that this GMS contraption opens up are endless. Just think, for so many people, the reason they get so excited about sound and music is because of the emotion/visualization that they associate with it. The GMS idea, coupled with what you’ve been doing with the Photosounder, could mean unbelievable advancements in sound arts. Someday people will be able to use this kind of technology to immediately score any action or video! Imagine a Photosounder that creates sound, melody and harmony even, using time in conjunction with color, movement, action, and light, as well!
Man I am LOVING seeing this project come together John, seriously. I do live-looping with Ableton Live as well and I keep thinking how cool it’d be to allow the crowd to join in on the jam session by having Live change the scale output by GMS based on the chord progression of the song you’re playing. Talk about crowd-participation….