That Syncing Feeling: Networked Strategies for Enabling Ensemble Creativity in iPad Musicians

Abstract

The group experience of synchronisation is a key aspect of ensemble musical performance. This paper presents a number of strategies for syncing performance information across networked iPad-instruments to enable creativity among an ensemble of improvising musicians. Acoustic instrumentalists sync without mechanical intervention. Electronic instruments frequently synchronise rhythm using MIDI or OSC connections. In contrast, our system syncs other aspects of performance, such as tonality, instrument functions, and gesture classifications, to support and enhance improvised performance. Over a number of performances with an iPad and percussion group, Ensemble Metatone, various syncing scenarios have been explored that support, extend, and disrupt ensemble creativity.