Back Thesis defence: Dr. Álvaro Sarasúa

Thesis defence: Dr. Álvaro Sarasúa

04.09.2017

 

"Musical Interaction Based on the Conductor Metaphor"

-Dr. Álvaro Sarasúa Berodia

Thesis supervisors: 

Dr. Emilia Gómez and Dr. Enric Guaus

29/5/2017

 

 
Brief description of the thesis:
 
The conductor metaphor has been commonly used in Digital Musical Instruments (DMIs). The idea behind it is to turn the computer into an orchestra that the user conducts with movements that resemble those of a real orchestra conductor. This thesis offers an in-depth analysis of musical interaction with such DMIs. We theorize that part of the knowledge that users have from the domain that the interface metaphor replicates is user-specific. In this context, we argue that systems using an interface metaphor can see their usability improved by adapting to this user-specific knowledge. We propose strategies to design motion-sound mappings for DMIs that draw upon the conductor metaphor by adapting to personal nuances that can be automatically computed from spontaneous conducting movements. 
 
Experience as a PhD student:
 
Going through a PhD program was for me a tough challenge that did not come without periods of doubt and frustration. However, these periods really pay off, since the overall experience during these four years has been greatly enriching at both the professional and personal levels. Working at the Music Technology Group gave me the chance to meet many incredibly talented researchers from all around the globe, some of whom are today close friends. Also, working in the context of the EU-funded PHENICX project allowed me to work with researchers from other great research labs in Europe. DTIC staff has always been very kind and helpful, so I definitely feel that UPF-DTIC (and Barcelona!) offers the best possible environment for a PhD.

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