This thesis explores the design, development, and use of a touch-sensitive digital musical instrument called TacTile that is inspired by elements of the electric guitar and piano. The project features an eTextile-based matrix sensing method, custom software implementation and digital fabrication processes that inform its tactile, expressive and responsive qualities.

This study asks two interrelated primary research questions: what can be learned by designing, developing and using a new electronic musical instrument that focuses on my needs as a musician—specifically tactility and control intimacy; and how the design, development and use of this instrument alter the experience of making music.

Following a Research Through Design methodology, this project employs Iterative Prototyping to refine the instrument. The instrument is evaluated through Reflective Use for specific musical tasks by practicing and performing with it.

This thesis culminates in a discussion about TacTile’s unique properties, gestural affordances, and idiomaticity—examining how these aspects shape music creation through the instrument.

• Author
• https://github.com/aranyakhurana/TacTile