Master's Thesis | Sound Design

The Augmented Drumstick

 
The Augmented Drumstick

How can you combine acoustic sound with live electronics when playing an instrument such as the drums, without interfering with the musical performance? Although electronic music and live electronics have definitely expanded the sound possibilities, they have also led to several discussions about musical performance.

The research section of this thesis explores the topic of augmented instruments, as well as the importance of performativity and expressiveness in the area of live electronics. The result of this work is the development of a new, augmented drumstick, a music controller which allows the performer to broaden their sound and performance capabilities when playing an instrument such as the drums, where all of the limbs are involved. Use of this newly developed technology does not limit musical performance on the drum set, but rather enhances it. This thesis also provides an overview of the current state of the research regarding controllers for live electronics, with a focus on drums.