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Computer Codes Make Sweet Music For Self-Playing Piano


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A user preparing an antique player piano for use.

University of Nottingham researchers say they used unique software to create an interactive self-playing piano performance.

Credit: Michael Kipley/Herald-Whig

Researchers at the University of Nottingham, U.K., Mixed Reality Laboratory say they have used unique software to create an interactive self-playing piano performance called "Climb."

They note this unique musical composition combines contemporary piano with computer game elements to create a non-linear piece of music accompanied by graphics in which the user ascends a mountain, choosing their own path while dealing with weather, animals, and other obstacles.

The system is comprised of 23 fragments or musical events the software plays in different orders.

"These fragments are like pieces of a puzzle that can be put together in different ways to create different pieces of music for the pianist to play and the audience to experience," says Nottingham's Adrian Hazzard.

In addition, he notes the software can trigger duets and challenges, with the interactive system mimicking a virtual partner who may jump to new points in the score.

From University of Nottingham (United Kingdom)
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