Hyperbow

The creation of musical instruments that utilize technology to increase the functionality and subtlety of control has been an endeavor of Tod Machover and his research group since 1986. Toward this goal, we have developed a violin bow interface intended for use by accomplished players.

This project aims to capture the most intricate aspects of violin bowing technique, the subtle elements that immediately and directly impact the sound of the instrument while playing. The physical gesture data collected can then be used to control audio effects and synthesis algorithms in real-time. The Hyperbow interface was featured in Toy Symphony performances with violinists Joshua Bell and Cora Venus Lunny, and currently several pieces for cello and Hyperbow are in development by colleagues at the Royal Academy of Music.

Current research uses the Hyperbow as a measurement system to investigate the interaction of bowing parameters (speed, force, position) and the corresponding effects on the audio produced.