CAPSICUM Project:

A research consortium (Ircam, University of Cambridge, Miami University) focused on the ElectroMagnetically-Prepared Piano and active control

Active Control and the ElectroMagnetically-Prepared Piano

Our Artistic Research Residency focuses on the expansion and artistic implementation of an existing augmented instrument: the ElectroMagnetically-Prepared Piano. This augmented acoustic piano is achieved by placing a group of electromagnets over the strings of a grand piano. An audio signal is sent to the electromagnets, causing the strings to vibrate in response. Our current project adds an active control feedback system, resulting in a more flexible hybrid acoustic/electronic system. Through the use of active control we gain the ability to bend individual partials of the vibrating piano string in real time, significantly altering the resulting sound.

Initial Active Control Examples:

A multiphonic followed by a pitch bend

active control: single string multiphonic 1
active control: single string multiphonic 2

Other examples of the ElectroMagnetically-Prepared Piano

4 low electromagnets, sine tones moving through various partials
4 high electromagnets, sine tones moving quickly through various partials
multiple electromagnets, sine tones, slow LFO moving above and below various partials
playing a note triggers sustain and partial glisses
low voice through multiple electromagnets. Note: the only sound source is the piano strings
drums through multiple electromagnets. Again, only sound source is the piano strings
multiple electromagnets, filtered noise moving through various partials
multiple electromagnets, filtered noise, upper then middle partials