Rebus is not just a Theremin

Oreggia, Eleonora and Parini, Clive. 2020. 'Rebus is not just a Theremin'. In: NIME 2020. Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, United Kingdom 21 - 25 July 2020. [Conference or Workshop Item]

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Abstract or Description

In current gestural systems based on ultrasonic distance or optical sensing the breadth and nuance of human interaction is often limited by too simplistic sensing technology. Rebus is a sensing system that uses sophisticated microwave technology to detect both phase and power of an emitted and received electromagnetic wave, allowing new dimensions of interactivity for audiences and expression for performers.

Rebus creates a sensitive space where any subtle interaction is detected independently of external light or sound. When the instrument is turned on, the electromagnetic field transmitted forms an immaterial interface where invisible affordances can be touched and manipulated with the hands and the body. The analogue detected amplitude and phase are then connected to the Bela digital music processor system that can control and manipulate any designed composition.

Rebus can be reminiscent of a Theremin (one of the earliest electronic musical instrument and the first to be played without being touched) and can be programmed to emulate one, but the compositional possibilities and applications of this digital instrument are potentially infinite.

Item Type:

Conference or Workshop Item (Other)

Keywords:

NIME2020

Related URLs:

Departments, Centres and Research Units:

Computing

Dates:

DateEvent
July 2020Completed

Event Location:

Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, United Kingdom

Date range:

21 - 25 July 2020

Item ID:

35302

Date Deposited:

11 Mar 2024 16:22

Last Modified:

11 Mar 2024 16:22

URI:

https://research.gold.ac.uk/id/eprint/35302

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