Originating as an investigation into the relationships between rhythm and technology, RhythmSynthesis applies color, shape, and sound to demonstrate how our understanding of visual music, computation, and tangible, audio-visual interactions can be applied as considerations in musical compositions. As an instrument, the final piece allows for experimentation, rewards for mastery, and is a vehicle for expression.

By asking questions about how visual music can be used to perceive rhythm, what ways visual rhythms can be used for composition, and what ways composition can be intertwined with improvised performance and notation, this project illustrates that sound is a reliable and effective way to provide users feedback for making visual composition decisions, judgements, and actions. From amateur to professional musicians, the instrument allows for unique, personal interactions and expressive choice.

For more detailed information on the project (including sketches, design questions, detailed prototype descriptions, and presentations), please check out my Thesis website. Here is a link to the final Thesis paper in PDF format.

RhythmSynthesis has been featured at the following exhibits/conferences:
SIGGRAPH 2012 Conference, Los Angeles, CA | August 2012
Critical Information, School of Visual Arts, New York, NY | December 2011
ACM Conference on Creativity and Cognition, Atlanta GA | November 2011
Maker Faire, New York Hall of Science, Queens, NY | September 2011
Open Hardware Summit, New York Hall of Science, Queens, NY | September 2011
MFA DT Thesis Show, Parsons the New School for Design, New York NY | May 2011