'Orrery Arcana': An Esoteric System for Improvisational Performance

Abstract

Orrery Arcana is a system for real-time improvisational performance designed to facilitate a process analogous to automatic writing. The system includes custom software for real-time signal processing written in Max/MSP and Python and a self-made hardware controller that is integrated with a planetary gear train, which gives the performer control over timing and sequenced events through manual gear rotations. Each gear is equipped with a sensor plate with embedded light, magnetic, and capacitive-touch sensors. The sensors are primarily manipulated via tactile modular control objects in the form of concentric rings of colored acrylic and inset magnets that correspond to Tarot cards.