Performing Music with Microsoft Kinect

Abstract

Recent technological inventions offer new possibilities for performing music. In this thesis, ways to control music by capturing motions with optical tracking devices are explored.

The purpose of the thesis was to find an optimal setup for creating virtual instruments that are controlled by the performer’s bodily motions. In this case, Microsoft Kinect was chosen for the purpose. Other devices that use similar technology are also introduced shortly. In addition, the history of electronic music instruments and controllers is described and experimental approaches to performing music are presented.

Using Microsoft Kinect, Ableton Live and NI Mate, a wireless gesture controlled musical performance was created. The thesis describes the process and instructs how to set up the same system.