Exploring the Virtual Reed Parameter Space Using Haptic Feedback

A high quality computer synthesis of an acoustic sound source does not necessarily yield a playable virtual musical instrument. A computer simulation of an acoustic musical instrument creates a disconnect between sound production and user input, and correspondingly, between hearing and feeling, in contrast to their interconnection in an acoustic instrument. This disconnect denies the user important haptic clues well known to help instrument control, impeding the user's ability to find, and remain inside, regions of playability. This research explores the addition of haptic feedback to a virtual reed model. In particular, we render the instrument's parameter space as a dynamic force field in order to support fine motor movements and, in turn, provide the user with cues regarding the instrument's oscillatory state and possible regions of playability. We then observe the effects that this additional feedback has on the user's ability to play the virtual instrument