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Convention Paper

The Videoharp

Authors: Rubine, Dean; McAvinney, Paul

AES Convention 85 · Paper 2741 · November 1988

Abstract

The VideoHarp is an optical-scanning musical instrument controller which senses multiple-finger gestures. It works by detecting the images of a performer's fingertips. From the images, the position and velocity of each fingertip is deduced. This information is translated into MIDI, which is then used to drive synthesizers for sound production. The translation is programmable, enabling the instrument to be played using different articulation techniques. The VideoHarp may be played with harp-like or keyboard-like gestures, by bowing or drumming motions, or by motions with no analog in existing instrument technique.

Details

Published in
AES Convention 85
AES Convention
85
Paper number
2741
Publication date
November 6, 1988
Session subject
Electronic Music
Affiliation
Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA (See document for exact affiliation information.)
Type
Convention Paper