Entangled Bowing: Integrating the MetaBow into Spatialized Composition and Real-Time DSP

Roberto Alonso Trillo; Davor Vincze; Peter AC Nelson

Entangled Bowing: Integrating the MetaBow into Spatialized Composition and Real-Time DSP
Image credit: Roberto Alonso Trillo; Davor Vincze; Peter AC Nelson

Abstract:

This workshop explores the integration of the MetaBow (Alonso Trillo et al., 2024), a sensor-embedded violin bow, into compositional practice, sound spatialization, and real-time DSP processing. The MetaBow, developed to maintain the ergonomics of a traditional violin bow while providing high resolution motion data, opens new possibilities for mapping gestural input to spatial audio processing and digital synthesis techniques.

Participants will engage in hands-on experimentation with different mapping strategies, leveraging accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, and sensor fusion data to drive spatial trajectories, control DSP effects, and shape real-time sonic transformations.

The workshop will cover:

Introduction to the MetaBow: design, sensor technology, and integration. Mapping Strategies: from direct parameter mapping to machine learning-based gesture classification. Spatialization Techniques: using bowing data to drive multi speaker diffusion, binaural processing, and ambisonics. Real-Time DSP Control: applying sensor data to modulate synthesis, spectral processing, and live electronics. Collaborative Improvisation: participants will explore interactive performance scenarios, integrating bow gestures with sound diffusion in a networked environment.

This workshop is designed for musicians, composers, and digital instrument designers interested in expanding their performative and compositional language through motion tracking and spatial sound. Participants will leave with a set of tools and techniques for embedding bow performance data into dynamic, responsive musical systems.

No prior experience with MetaBow is required, though familiarity with Max/MSP, SuperCollider, or other real-time processing environments will be beneficial. A limited number of MetaBow units will be provided for hands-on exploration.